Warner Bros. and HBO have officially announced the first six actors set to portray iconic Hogwarts professors in the upcoming *Harry Potter* series, offering fresh interpretations of beloved characters from the Wizarding World.
The cast was revealed today, putting an end to months of speculation about how this reimagined version of Harry, Hermione, and Ron’s journey will be presented. Among the confirmed actors is John Lithgow (*Conclave*, *Dexter*), who previously revealed he would be stepping into the role of Albus Dumbledore. His casting comes as no surprise to many, given the ongoing buzz surrounding the show’s creative direction.
Joining him are two names that have been widely speculated on by fans: Nick Frost (*Shaun of the Dead*, *Hot Fuzz*) cast as Rubeus Hagrid, and Paapa Essiedu (*I May Destroy You*, *Black Mirror*) portraying Severus Snape. Completing the ensemble are Janet McTeer (*Me Before You*, *The Menu*) as Minerva McGonagall, Luke Thallon (*The Favourite*, *Present Laughter*) as Quirinus Quirrell, and Paul Whitehouse (*The Fast Show*, *Alice Through the Looking Glass*) as Argus Filch.
(Top, left to right): John Lithgow (credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (credit: Ruth Crafer). (Bottom, left to right): Nick Frost (credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (credit Mike Marsland). Image provided by Warner Bros.
“We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life,” said showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner and director and executive producer Mark Mylod in a joint statement.
Characters like Dumbledore, Hagrid, and Snape are not only central figures in the *Harry Potter* universe but also cultural icons in modern storytelling. Each actor stepping into these roles faces immense anticipation from fans worldwide. John Lithgow previously reflected on the weight of portraying the legendary Hogwarts headmaster.
“I just got the phone call up at the Sundance Film Festival for yet another film, and it was not an easy decision because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid,” Lithgow told ScreenRant earlier this year. “But I’m very excited. Some wonderful people are turning their attention back to Harry Potter. That’s why it’s been such a hard decision. I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”
Movies Like Harry Potter
While the series does not yet have an official release date, production is expected to begin shortly. Details regarding how the show will differ from the original novels or the previous film adaptations remain under wraps. However, Warner Bros. has confirmed that the series format allows for a deeper exploration of Harry’s story than what could be achieved in a two-hour movie.
Notably, author J.K. Rowling is involved in the development of the series, ensuring continuity with the foundational lore of the Wizarding World. For more updates, including news on the casting of Harry, Hermione, and Ron, stay tuned to our latest coverage.
