The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached a significant milestone with the first six casting announcements revealed. While we're still awaiting news about who will portray central characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Voldemort, we now know the actors bringing beloved Hogwarts faculty members Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others to life.
Continue reading to discover the newly confirmed cast members and see which major roles remain to be filled in this fresh adaptation of Harry Potter.
Confirmed Cast Members:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
Acclaimed actor John Lithgow, recipient of six Emmy and two Tony Awards, will portray Hogwarts' wise headmaster Albus Dumbledore. The most powerful wizard of his time serves as Harry's mentor while concealing a complex past involving dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald.
Lithgow's impressive filmography includes 3rd Rock From the Sun, Dexter, The Crown, and Interstellar.
Previous Dumbledore portrayals: Richard Harris (first two films), Michael Gambon (remaining series), with Toby Regbo and Jude Law as younger versions.
Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
Tony and Golden Globe winner Janet McTeer transforms into stern yet caring Professor McGonagall, Gryffindor's head of house and Dumbledore's trusted deputy.
McTeer's credits include Me Before You, The Menu, and Ozark.
Previous McGonagall portrayals: Dame Maggie Smith (original films)
Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu takes on the complex role of potions master Severus Snape, whose mysterious connections to Harry's parents fuel much of the story.
Seen in I May Destroy You and Black Mirror, Essiedu now tackles one of literature's most intriguing characters.
Previous Snape portrayals: Alan Rickman (original films)
Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
Comedic actor Nick Frost will play the warmhearted half-giant Hagrid, whose friendship with Harry begins the young wizard's Hogwarts journey.
Frost's signature humor shines in Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz.
Previous Hagrid portrayals: Robbie Coltrane
Uncast Major Characters
Numerous pivotal roles remain to be filled, including:
Harry Potter
Ron Weasley
Hermione Granger
Lord Voldemort
Draco Malfoy
For more details, explore our guide to the top 25 Harry Potter characters and how to experience the books while awaiting this highly anticipated adaptation.
