Harry Potter HBO Reboot: Confirmed Cast and Characters Revealed

Excitement is brewing as HBO's much-anticipated Harry Potter TV series reaches a significant milestone: the unveiling of the first six cast members. While fans eagerly await announcements for pivotal roles like Harry, Ron, Hermione, and the sinister Lord Voldemort, we now have insight into who will portray iconic figures such as Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others. Dive in to discover the confirmed actors and the roles still awaiting their stars.

Confirmed Cast:

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

The legendary John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, steps into the shoes of Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts. Known for his wisdom and power, Dumbledore plays a crucial role as a mentor to Harry Potter and has a complex history with the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald. Lithgow's versatile career spans from "3rd Rock From the Sun" and "Dexter" to "The Crown" and "Interstellar," making him a fitting choice for this iconic character.

Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris in "Sorcerer’s Stone" and "Chamber of Secrets," followed by Michael Gambon in the subsequent films. Younger versions of the character were portrayed by Toby Regbo and Jude Law.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Tony and Golden Globe winner Janet McTeer will embody Professor Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet caring head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress of Hogwarts. Her role is pivotal from the very beginning, as she assists Dumbledore in delivering Harry to the Dursleys. McTeer's impressive resume includes "Me Before You," "The Menu," and "Ozark," among others.

Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films? Dame Maggie Smith in the original series and Fiona Glascott in the "Fantastic Beasts" films.

Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape

Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu is set to portray Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions master and head of Slytherin. Snape's intricate relationship with Harry and his parents adds depth to the series. Essiedu's notable performances include "I May Destroy You," "Black Mirror," and "Gangs of London."

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

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

Nick Frost brings his charm to the role of Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant and keeper of keys at Hogwarts. Hagrid is instrumental in Harry's journey, serving as a close friend and protector. Frost's comedic background, including "Shaun of the Dead" and "Hot Fuzz," adds a unique flair to this cherished character.

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 steps into the role of Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. Thallon, an emerging talent, has appeared in "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter."

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

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse will portray Argus Filch, the strict caretaker of Hogwarts, often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Known for his work in "The Fast Show" and "The Death of Stalin," Whitehouse brings his comedic touch to this memorable character.

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

Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:

• Harry Potter
• Ron Weasley
• Hermione Granger
• Lord Voldemort
• Draco Malfoy
• Sirius Black
• Remus Lupin
• Dolores Umbridge
• Alastor Moody
• Ginny Weasley
• Luna Lovegood
• Fred Weasley
• George Weasley
• Arthur Weasley
• Molly Weasley
• James Potter
• Lily Potter
• Bellatrix Lestrange
• Neville Longbottom
• Cedric Diggory
• Dudley Dursley
• Petunia Dursley
• 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, check out our ranking of the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books, the producing duo leading the charge on HBO's reboot, and our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.