The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters From the Movies and Books

In 2025, the Harry Potter franchise remains as beloved as ever. To celebrate this enduring series, we've compiled a list of the 25 best characters from the Harry Potter films and books, based on fan reactions, their impact on the franchise, and their significance in the Potter mythos. If your favorites didn't make the cut, share your thoughts in the comments!

Join us in the Great Hall as we explore these iconic characters.

Note: This list excludes characters from Hogwarts Legacy and remains unaffected by the upcoming Harry Potter series.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

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25. Dobby

Dobby, the house-elf, first appears as a quirky and somewhat annoying figure in *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*. However, his noble intentions and ultimate sacrifice in *The Deathly Hallows Part 1* reveal his deep loyalty and bravery. Dobby's dying words, "Such a beautiful place... to be with friends," encapsulate his selflessness, making his character one of the most touching in the series.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

Gellert Grindelwald, though overshadowed by Voldemort in the main series, is a formidable villain in the *Fantastic Beasts* films. His brief yet impactful appearance in the Harry Potter series showcases his power and cunning. His complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore adds depth to his character, making him a significant figure in the wizarding world's history.

23. Ginny Weasley

Ginny Weasley's journey from a shy, lovesick girl to a fierce member of Dumbledore's Army is inspiring. Her romance with Harry feels both unexpected and inevitable, highlighting her strength and leadership. In the books, her role as a rebel leader is more pronounced, showcasing her determination and courage.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and vanity make him a memorable character. His exaggerated claims of heroism are exposed by Harry and his friends, revealing his true incompetence. Lockhart's comedic presence and eventual downfall add a humorous twist to the series.

21. Albus Severus Potter

Albus Severus Potter, Harry and Ginny's son, struggles with the weight of his family's legacy. Named after two of the most influential wizards, he grapples with his identity and the expectations placed upon him. His story unfolds in *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child*, offering a glimpse into the next generation of the wizarding world.

20. Molly Weasley

Molly Weasley embodies the perfect, loving mother, enhanced by magic. Her nurturing nature extends to Harry, treating him like another son and providing the love and support he desperately needs. Her bravery shines through as a member of the Order of the Phoenix, culminating in her iconic battle against Bellatrix Lestrange.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, a grizzled veteran Auror, is known for his paranoia and eccentricities. Despite his challenges, he remains a fierce fighter for good, serving as a Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher and a loyal member of the Order of the Phoenix. His tragic end in *The Deathly Hallows Part 1* underscores his dedication.

18. Minerva McGonagall

Professor McGonagall, head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress, balances strict discipline with a caring nature. Her role in the Order of the Phoenix and her dedication to Hogwarts and its students make her a beloved figure. McGonagall's unwavering support for Harry and the school's defense is truly admirable.

17. Dolores Umbridge

Dolores Umbridge is a character you love to hate. Her oppressive presence at Hogwarts and cruel punishments make her a unique villain. Her pink attire and sickly sweet demeanor only enhance her detestable nature, making her one of the most memorable antagonists in the series.

16. Lucius Malfoy

Lucius Malfoy, a powerful and influential wizard, is a staunch supporter of Voldemort. His actions in *The Chamber of Secrets* set off a chain of events, and his disdain for the Weasleys highlights his elitist nature. Jason Isaacs' portrayal adds depth to Lucius' arrogance and eventual downfall.

15. Newt Scamander

Newt Scamander, the protagonist of the *Fantastic Beasts* series, is a unique wizard hero. His passion for magical creatures and his awkward yet endearing personality set him apart. While the *Fantastic Beasts* series ended prematurely, Newt's character remains a fascinating addition to the Potter universe.

14. Remus Lupin

Remus Lupin, a Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, provides Harry with comfort and insight into his parents. His struggle as a werewolf adds depth to his character, and his role in the Order of the Phoenix showcases his bravery and loyalty. Lupin's relationship with Tonks further enriches his story.

13. Luna Lovegood

Luna Lovegood's quirky and offbeat nature makes her a beloved character. Her friendship with Harry and her role in Dumbledore's Army highlight her courage and loyalty. Luna's unique perspective and unwavering support for her friends make her an unforgettable part of the series.

12. Rubeus Hagrid

Rubeus Hagrid is a true friend and confidant to Harry. His warm and caring nature provides comfort and support throughout Harry's journey. Hagrid's love for magical creatures and his role in the series' most emotional moments make him an essential part of the Harry Potter universe.

11. Fred and George Weasley

Fred and George Weasley bring humor and mischief to the series. Their pranks and entrepreneurial spirit are balanced by their bravery and loyalty. Their role in the Order of the Phoenix and Fred's ultimate sacrifice highlight their courage and the depth of their characters.

10. Bellatrix Lestrange

Bellatrix Lestrange's sheer enjoyment of evil makes her a terrifying villain. Her sadistic actions, including the torture of Neville's parents and the murder of Sirius Black, cement her place as one of the series' most memorable antagonists. Her eventual fate feels well-deserved, given her heinous deeds.

9. Draco Malfoy

Draco Malfoy serves as Harry's rival throughout the series. His privileged background and bullying nature make him a compelling antagonist. However, his struggle with the task of killing Dumbledore reveals his inner conflict, adding complexity to his character.

8. Sirius Black

Sirius Black, Harry's godfather, brings a rebellious and edgy vibe to the series. His close relationship with Harry's parents and his eventual role as a father figure to Harry make him a beloved character. His untimely death leaves a lasting impact on Harry and the series.

7. Voldemort

Lord Voldemort, born Tom Marvolo Riddle, is the ultimate embodiment of evil. His fear-inducing presence and relentless pursuit of power make him a formidable villain. His complex backstory and inability to comprehend love add depth to his character, making him one of the most iconic villains in literature and film.

6. Neville Longbottom

Neville Longbottom's transformation from a shy, seemingly inept student to a brave hero is inspiring. His participation in Dumbledore's Army and his crucial role in the Battle of Hogwarts showcase his growth and courage. Neville's bravery in the face of personal tragedy makes him a standout character.

5. Albus Dumbledore

Albus Dumbledore is a wise mentor and a powerful wizard. His whimsical yet profound nature, combined with his bravery and leadership, make him an iconic figure. His complex relationship with Grindelwald and his ultimate sacrifice add depth to his character. John Lithgow will portray Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter TV show.

4. Severus Snape

Severus Snape's complex character leaves a lasting impact. His harsh treatment of Harry contrasts with his ultimate loyalty to Dumbledore and his love for Lily Potter. Alan Rickman's portrayal captures Snape's enigmatic nature perfectly. Paapa Essiedu is reportedly a front runner to play Snape in the HBO series.

3. Ron Weasley

Ron Weasley, Harry's loyal best friend, brings humor and heart to the series. His bravery and perseverance, despite his fears and insecurities, make him a relatable and endearing character. His relationship with Hermione adds depth to his story, culminating in their eventual romance.

2. Hermione Granger

Hermione Granger is more than just a sidekick; she's a brilliant and brave witch. Her logic and willingness to break the rules for the greater good make her a vital part of the trio. Her evolving relationship with Ron and her unwavering support for Harry highlight her importance to the series.

1. Harry Potter

Harry Potter, the series' protagonist, is a sympathetic and relatable character. His journey from an orphaned boy to a hero fighting against the ultimate evil captivates audiences. His imperfections and struggles with fame and loss make him a compelling and enduring figure. Over 32,000 children auditioned for the role of Harry in the upcoming HBO series, set to premiere in 2026.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

That concludes our list of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our selections? Share your thoughts in the comments or create your own Harry Potter character tier list using our tool above.

For more Harry Potter content, check out our guides on LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and Harry Potter gift ideas. If you're interested in similar books, explore our list of the best books like Harry Potter.

Upcoming Harry Potter

In addition to the Harry Potter HBO TV show, which promises "big-picture storytelling" and a deeper exploration of the Wizarding World, Warner Bros. has confirmed Hogwarts Legacy 2 as a major priority following the success of the 2023 action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.