HBO's Harry Potter Reboot: Confirmed Cast and Characters Revealed

Excitement is brewing as HBO's Harry Potter TV series reaches a significant milestone with the announcement of the first six cast members. While fans eagerly await news on who will portray iconic characters such as Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Lord Voldemort, we now have insights into who will bring to life Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and other beloved figures from the wizarding world.

Dive in to discover the confirmed cast and which major roles are still up for grabs.

Confirmed Cast:

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

John Lithgow Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Jessica Howes

John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, will step into the iconic role of Albus Dumbledore, Hogwarts' revered headmaster. Known for his wisdom and power, Dumbledore plays a crucial role as Harry's mentor and has a complex history involving Gellert Grindelwald, a formidable dark wizard. Lithgow's extensive career includes standout performances in 3rd Rock From the Sun, Dexter, The Crown, and films like Shrek, Interstellar, and more.

**Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films?** Richard Harris portrayed Dumbledore in Sorcerer's Stone and Chamber of Secrets, with Michael Gambon taking over for the remainder of the series. Younger versions of the character were played by Toby Regbo and Jude Law.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Janet McTeer Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Andrew Crowley

Tony and Golden Globe winner Janet McTeer will portray Professor Minerva McGonagall, the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress at Hogwarts. McGonagall, a pivotal character since the very first film, joins Dumbledore in pivotal scenes, such as delivering Harry to the Dursleys. McTeer's notable works include Me Before You, The Menu, and series like Ozark and The Old Man.

**Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films?** Dame Maggie Smith took on the role in the original series, while Fiona Glascott played her in the Fantastic Beasts series.

Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape

Paapa Essiedu Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Ruth Crafer

Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu is set to embody Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. Snape's intricate past with Harry's parents and his brooding presence make him a central figure throughout the series. Essiedu's previous roles include I May Destroy You, Black Mirror, and The Lazarus Project.

**Who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films?** Alan Rickman brought Snape to life, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke portraying younger versions of the character.

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

Nick Frost Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Lee Malone

Nick Frost, known for his comedic roles, will take on the role of Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant who rescues Harry from the Dursleys and introduces him to the magical world. Frost's notable films include Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World's End.

**Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films?** Robbie Coltrane, with Martin Bayfield portraying the young Hagrid.

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

Luke Thallon Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Phil Sharp

Newcomer Luke Thallon will portray Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. Thallon's previous works include The Favourite and Present Laughter.

**Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films?** Ian Hart.

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

Paul Whitehouse Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Mike Marsland

BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse is set to play Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker known for his strict demeanor and his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse's notable works include The Fast Show, Harry & Paul, and The Death of Stalin.

**Who played Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films?** David Bradley.

Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:

The list of major characters yet to be cast includes Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Lord Voldemort, Draco Malfoy, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Dolores Umbridge, Alastor Moody, Ginny Weasley, Luna Lovegood, Fred and George Weasley, Arthur and Molly Weasley, James and Lily Potter, Bellatrix Lestrange, Neville Longbottom, Cedric Diggory, Dudley, Petunia, and Vernon Dursley, Lucius Malfoy, Cho Chang, Seamus Finnigan, Dean Thomas, Gilderoy Lockhart, Dobby, Nearly Headless Nick, Moaning Myrtle, Sybill Trelawney, Filius Flitwick, and many more.

For more insights, explore our ranking of the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books, learn about the producing duo leading the charge on HBO's reboot, and follow our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.