Harry Potter is coming to HBO: the official cast of the TV series is revealed

HBO has finally announced the first cast members for the new Harry Potter TV series , an ambitious adaptation that promises to be a faithful transposition of JK Rowling's seven novels. The series, scheduled for 2026 on the HBO Max platform, aims to explore the wizarding world of Hogwarts in depth, offering a detailed narrative that will span seven seasons, each dedicated to a book in the saga.

Confirmed actors include some of the biggest names in film and television: John Lithgow will play Albus Dumbledore , the wise headmaster of Hogwarts. The actor, known for his roles in Dexter and The Crown , expressed his excitement about this new commitment, despite knowing the importance and complexity of the character. Janet McTeer will play Minerva McGonagall , the stern but fair vice-headmistress and Transfiguration teacher. McTeer has already shown her talent in productions such as The White Queen and Ozark . Paapa Essiedu will take on the role of Severus Snape , the controversial Potions teacher. Essiedu, acclaimed for his performances in I May Destroy You and Gangs of London , will bring a fresh take to this complex character. Nick Frost will play Rubeus Hagrid, the gamekeeper with a heart of gold. Known for his work on Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz , Frost will bring a touch of humanity and humour to the role. Luke Thallon has been cast as Quirinus Quirrell , the shy Defence Against the Dark Arts professor with a dark secret. Thallon has already demonstrated his talents as a thespian in productions such as Hamlet . Paul Whitehouse will take on the role of Argus Filch , the gruff caretaker of Hogwarts. Whitehouse, a veteran of British comedy, is known for his work on The Fast Show.

The series is led by showrunner Francesca Gardiner, who has previously worked on projects such as Succession and His Dark Materials, and director Mark Mylod, known for his work on Game of Thrones. Both have expressed their intention to offer a more in-depth narrative than the films, exploring details and subplots present in the original books. JK Rowling is participating as an executive producer, ensuring that the adaptation remains faithful to her original vision. The production has emphasised its commitment to inclusive casting, opening up to talent of different ethnicities and backgrounds, thus responding to criticisms of the previous films for their lack of diversity.

The series will begin filming in summer 2025 at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, UK. With a schedule that includes one season for each book, the series aims to offer detailed and faithful storytelling, satisfying both long-time fans and new generations.
The new Harry Potter TV series on HBO is one of the most anticipated television productions of recent years, promising to bring audiences back to the magical world of Hogwarts with a fresh and in-depth perspective.