HBO has officially confirmed several key cast members for its much-anticipated Harry Potter TV series, bringing new faces to some of the franchise’s most iconic characters.
British actor and comedian Nick Frost, known for Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, has been cast as the beloved half-giant Hagrid. Paapa Essiedu, acclaimed for his roles in I May Destroy You and Gangs of London, will step into the complex role of Severus Snape. Oscar-nominated actress Janet McTeer, known for Ozark and Albert Nobbs, takes on the role of the stern yet kind-hearted Professor McGonagall.
Veteran British comedian Paul Whitehouse (The Fast Show, Harry & Paul) will portray Hogwarts’ ever-grumpy caretaker, Argus Filch. HBO has also confirmed that John Lithgow, an Emmy and Olivier Award-winning actor, will play Albus Dumbledore — a role he first announced earlier this year.
Filming for the series is expected to begin this summer, with the first season potentially airing as early as next year. However, the central trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione remains uncast. HBO's global open casting call for these roles drew over 30,000 submissions.
The show, developed under the guidance of showrunner Francesca Gardiner (Succession) and executive producer Mark Mylod, promises a deeper dive into J.K. Rowling’s original novels. Rowling will also serve as an executive producer, with HBO stating the show will be a “faithful adaptation” of the beloved book series.
While fans await news on who will portray Harry Potter himself, speculation continues to swirl about other big-name additions to the cast, including rumours of Cillian Murphy potentially joining as Lord Voldemort.
