The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached a significant casting milestone, with six major roles being officially confirmed. While fans still await announcements for central characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione and Voldemort, we now know which acclaimed actors will portray Hogwarts' iconic faculty members.
Confirmed Cast:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
Acclaimed actor John Lithgow (3rd Rock From The Sun, Dexter, The Crown) will portray Hogwarts' wise headmaster Albus Dumbledore. The two-time Tony and six-time Emmy winner steps into the role of one of the Wizarding World's most powerful wizards, who served as Harry Potter's mentor. Dumbledore's complex history includes his tragic relationship with dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald.
- Previous portrayals: Richard Harris (Films 1-2), Michael Gambon (Films 3-8), Jude Law (Fantastic Beasts series)
Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
Golden Globe and Tony winner Janet McTeer (Albert Nobbs, The Menu) will play Hogwarts' formidable Transfiguration professor and Gryffindor head of house. McGonagall serves as deputy headmistress and plays a crucial role from Harry's first moments in the wizarding world.
- Previous portrayals: Maggie Smith (original films), Fiona Glascott (Fantastic Beasts)
Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
Emmy-nominated rising star Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You) tackles the complex role of potions master Severus Snape. The enigmatic professor's complicated history with Harry's parents makes him one of the series' most fascinating characters.
- Previous portrayals: Alan Rickman (all original films)
Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
Comedic actor Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead) brings his signature warmth to the role of Hogwarts' beloved half-giant gamekeeper. Hagrid serves as Harry's first magical contact and remains one of his most loyal friends.
- Previous portrayals: Robbie Coltrane (original films)
Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell
Stage actor Luke Thallon (The Favourite) plays Harry's nervous first-year Defense Against the Dark Arts professor.
- Previous portrayals: Ian Hart (Sorcerer's Stone)
Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch
BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse (The Fast Show) portrays Hogwarts' cranky caretaker, usually found patrolling corridors with his cat Mrs. Norris.
- Previous portrayals: David Bradley (original films)
Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:
- Harry Potter
- Ron Weasley
- Hermione Granger
- Lord Voldemort
- Draco Malfoy
- Sirius Black
- Numerous other key students and professors
For more Harry Potter coverage, explore our ranking of the 25 best characters, details about the reboot's producing team, and guides to reading the book series.
