New Harry Potter Series Announces First Six Cast Members, Including Dumbledore and Snape

Warner Bros. and HBO have revealed the initial six actors set to portray iconic Hogwarts faculty in the forthcoming Harry Potter television series.

The cast was unveiled today after months of speculation about the fresh take on the Wizarding World saga, reimagining the adventures of Harry, Hermione, and Ron. The announced lineup features John Lithgow (Conclave, Dexter), who previously confirmed his role as Albus Dumbledore, alongside other actors long rumored for key parts.

Fans will recognize Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz) stepping into the role of Rubeus Hagrid and Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You, Black Mirror) cast as Severus Snape. The ensemble is completed by Janet McTeer (Me Before You, The Menu) as Minerva McGonagall, Luke Thallon (The Favourite, Present Laughter) as Quirinus Quirrell, and Paul Whitehouse (The Fast Show, Alice Through the Looking Glass) as Argus Filch.

“We’re thrilled to welcome such remarkable talent and are eager to see them breathe new life into these cherished characters,” said showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner and director of multiple episodes and executive producer Mark Mylod in a joint statement.

Hogwarts icons Dumbledore, Hagrid, and Snape are not only central to the Harry Potter universe but also beloved figures in popular culture. Each actor faces the challenge of redefining these legendary roles, a point Lithgow addressed when he confirmed his casting as the Hogwarts headmaster earlier this year.

“I received the call while at the Sundance Film Festival for another project, and it was a tough choice because this role will shape the final chapter of my career,” he told ScreenRant in February. “But I’m thrilled. A talented team is revisiting Harry Potter, and I’ve committed despite knowing I’ll be nearly 87 by the wrap party.”

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The Harry Potter series has yet to announce a premiere date but is slated to start production soon. Details on how it will diverge from the original books or the films released in the 2000s and early 2010s remain scarce. Warner Bros. has confirmed the series will explore Harry’s journey “with greater depth than a two-hour film allows.” Controversial author J.K. Rowling is involved in the show’s development.

For more on the Harry Potter series, check out our latest update on casting for Harry, Hermione, and Ron.