HBO has officially the main cast for its highly anticipated original Harry Potter television series, a faithful adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s bestselling book saga. Leading the ensemble is six-time Emmy winner and two-time Tony Award recipient John Lithgow, who will portray Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

The Stars Align

Lithgow, also an Oscar and BAFTA nominee, brings decades of stage and screen experience to the iconic role. Joining him is Janet McTeer, the Tony, Golden Globe, and Olivier Award-winning actress, who has been cast as Minerva McGonagall, Deputy Headmistress and Transfiguration professor.

McTeer’s dramatic credentials include Oscar and Emmy nominations, making her a strong match for the fierce and beloved witch. Paapa Essiedu, known for his Emmy-nominated performance in I May Destroy You, will take on the complex role of Severus Snape. The British actor has been praised for his emotionally charged and layered performances, signalling a new and potentially deeper portrayal of the enigmatic potions master.

Actor and comedian Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz) has been cast as Rubeus Hagrid, the half-giant Hogwarts gamekeeper and Care of Magical Creatures professor. Frost’s combination of comedic timing and warmth is expected to bring a fresh interpretation to the fan-favorite character.

Two additional cast members have been confirmed in guest and recurring roles. Luke Thallon will appear as Professor Quirinus Quirrell, the timid Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor, while Paul Whitehouse, a five-time BAFTA winner, will portray the surly castle caretaker Argus Filch.

“We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard,” said Francesca Gardiner, the series’ showrunner and executive producer, in a joint statement with Mark Mylod, who will direct multiple episodes. “We can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life.”

Making Magic Again

The series is being developed by HBO in collaboration with Warner Bros. Television and Brontë Film and TV. Executive producers include J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts, and David Heyman of Heyday Films, the original producer of the Harry Potter films.

Slated to stream exclusively on Max, the series aims to explore the Harry Potter universe with greater fidelity to the original texts than previous adaptations. Each season is expected to correspond to one book in the seven-part series, delving deeper into characters, subplots, and the rich lore of the Wizarding World.

The original Harry Potter film franchise, which spanned from 2001 to 2011, remains available to stream globally and will continue to be “a core part of the franchise,” according to Warner Bros. Discovery.

More casting announcements are expected in the coming months as production ramps up. The series does not yet have a confirmed premiere date.