Top 25 Harry Potter Characters: Books vs. Movies

In 2025, the Harry Potter franchise remains as captivating as ever, prompting us to celebrate its enduring legacy by highlighting the 25 best characters from both the books and films. Before diving into our selection, it's important to note our criteria: these rankings consider overall fan reaction, the character's impact on the series, their involvement in memorable moments, and their significance within the Harry Potter universe. If your favorite characters didn't make the cut, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!

Join us in the enchanting Great Hall as we explore these iconic figures from the Harry Potter saga.

Note: This list focuses solely on characters from the original Harry Potter series and will not include those from "Hogwarts Legacy" or the upcoming Harry Potter series.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

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25. Dobby

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Dobby, the endearing house-elf, captures hearts with his selflessness and loyalty. Initially appearing as an irritating figure in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets," Dobby's true intentions shine through as he risks everything to protect Harry. His poignant sacrifice in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1" remains one of the series' most touching scenes, demonstrating his unwavering dedication.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

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Gellert Grindelwald, though briefly seen in the main series, establishes himself as a formidable villain in the "Fantastic Beasts" films. His early 20th-century reign of terror and complex relationship with Dumbledore add depth to the wizarding world's history. Despite the premature end of the "Fantastic Beasts" series, Grindelwald's legacy remains impactful.

23. Ginny Weasley

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Ginny Weasley's journey from a shy schoolgirl to a confident member of Dumbledore's Army is inspiring. Her romance with Harry feels both unexpected and inevitable, adding warmth to the series. While her leadership and bravery are more pronounced in the books, Ginny's character is cherished for her resilience and spirit.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

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Gilderoy Lockhart, the charming yet fraudulent wizard, entertains with his vanity and incompetence. His brief stint as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts reveals his true colors, showcasing the humor and folly within the wizarding world.

21. Albus Severus Potter

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Albus Severus Potter, named after two legendary wizards, embodies the struggle between legacy and individuality. Though his story is primarily explored in "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," Albus' presence in the films hints at the complexities he faces growing up in the shadow of his famous father.

20. Molly Weasley

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Molly Weasley, the epitome of maternal love and strength, offers Harry the warmth and care he desperately needs. Her fierce protection of her family, culminating in her iconic battle with Bellatrix Lestrange, showcases her as more than just a nurturing figure.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

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Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, the grizzled ex-Auror, brings a sense of hardened wisdom to the series. Despite his paranoia and eccentricities, Moody's dedication to fighting evil is unwavering, making his eventual fate all the more poignant.

18. Minerva McGonagall

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Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet caring Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts, balances discipline with warmth. Her unwavering support for Harry and her pivotal role in the Battle of Hogwarts cement her as a beloved figure.

17. Dolores Umbridge

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Dolores Umbridge, perhaps more hated than Voldemort, embodies bureaucratic evil with her sadistic punishments and sickly sweet demeanor. Her presence in "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" is a testament to J.K. Rowling's skill in creating villains that evoke genuine disdain.

16. Lucius Malfoy

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Lucius Malfoy, the arrogant and influential Death Eater, adds tension and conflict to the series. His fall from grace and complex relationship with his son Draco provide a fascinating look at the darker side of the wizarding world.

15. Newt Scamander

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Newt Scamander, the quirky hero of the "Fantastic Beasts" series, brings a fresh perspective to the wizarding world with his love for magical creatures. Though the series ended prematurely, Newt's character remains a delightful addition to the franchise.

14. Remus Lupin

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Remus Lupin, the compassionate werewolf and Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, offers Harry invaluable guidance and comfort. His struggle to control his inner beast and his dedication to the Order of the Phoenix make him a beloved character.

13. Luna Lovegood

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Luna Lovegood, with her whimsical charm and unwavering loyalty, becomes an integral part of Harry's circle. Her unique perspective and bravery in the face of adversity make her a standout character.

12. Rubeus Hagrid

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Rubeus Hagrid, the gentle giant and loyal friend, plays a crucial role in Harry's life. His heartfelt moments and unwavering support make him a cherished figure in the series.

11. Fred and George Weasley

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Fred and George Weasley, the mischievous twins, bring humor and bravery to the series. Their entrepreneurial spirit and valiant stand against Umbridge showcase their unique blend of fun and courage.

10. Bellatrix Lestrange

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Bellatrix Lestrange, the sadistic Death Eater, embodies pure evil with her gleeful cruelty. Her actions, from torturing Neville's parents to murdering Sirius Black, make her one of the most feared characters in the series.

9. Draco Malfoy

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Draco Malfoy, Harry's school rival, evolves from a petty bully to a complex figure struggling with his family's expectations. His redemption arc, especially during the Battle of Hogwarts, adds depth to his character.

8. Sirius Black

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Sirius Black, Harry's godfather, brings a sense of family and rebellion to the series. His tragic fate and the bond he shares with Harry make his character deeply impactful.

7. Voldemort

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Voldemort, the ultimate embodiment of evil, challenges Harry throughout the series. His chilling presence and the fear he instills in the wizarding world make him an unforgettable villain.

6. Neville Longbottom

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Neville Longbottom, the underdog who rises to heroism, embodies courage and resilience. His journey from a timid student to a key player in the Battle of Hogwarts is inspiring.

5. Albus Dumbledore

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Albus Dumbledore, the wise and eccentric headmaster, guides Harry with his sage advice and powerful magic. His complex character, portrayed memorably by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon, leaves a lasting legacy.

4. Severus Snape

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Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions master, captivates with his dual nature. His ultimate sacrifice and the revelation of his true loyalty to Dumbledore and Lily Potter make him one of the series' most discussed characters.

3. Ron Weasley

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Ron Weasley, Harry's loyal friend and comic relief, brings humor and heart to the series. His bravery and unwavering support for Harry, despite his fears, make him an essential part of the trio.

2. Hermione Granger

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Hermione Granger, the brilliant and courageous witch, stands as a beacon of intelligence and morality. Her unwavering support for Harry and her pivotal role in their adventures make her a fan favorite.

1. Harry Potter

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Harry Potter, the series' heart and soul, embodies the journey from an underdog to a hero. His struggles, friendships, and ultimate triumph over Voldemort resonate deeply with fans, making him the quintessential character of the series.

And there you have it—our selection of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our choices? Or is there someone you feel we've overlooked? Share your thoughts in the comments or use our tool to create your own Harry Potter character tier list.

For more Harry Potter content, explore our guides to LEGO Harry Potter sets, board games, and gift ideas. If you're looking to delve deeper into the genre, check out our list of the best books like Harry Potter.

Upcoming Harry Potter Projects

In addition to the original series, fans can look forward to the new Harry Potter HBO TV show, promising "big-picture storytelling" and a deeper exploration of the Wizarding World. Warner Bros. also plans to continue the legacy with "Hogwarts Legacy 2," following the success of the 2023 action RPG.