HBO's Harry Potter reboot reveals cast lineup

HBO's Harry Potter TV series has reached a major casting milestone with the first six roles officially announced. While fans eagerly await reveals for Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Voldemort, we now know who will portray Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and other iconic characters.

Below you'll find the confirmed cast members and notable roles still awaiting actors.

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

Academy Award nominee and six-time Emmy winner John Lithgow steps into the role of Hogwarts' wise headmaster. Dumbledore remains one of the wizarding world's most powerful figures, serving as Harry's mentor while grappling with his complex past – particularly his tragic relationship with dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald.

Lithgow brings extensive experience from acclaimed roles in The Crown, Dexter, Interstellar, Footloose, and 3rd Rock From the Sun.

Previous Dumbledore portrayals include Richard Harris (Philosopher's Stone/Chamber of Secrets) and Michael Gambon (subsequent films), with Jude Law playing a younger version in Fantastic Beasts.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Tony and Golden Globe winner Janet McTeer takes over as Gryffindor's strict but fair Transfiguration professor. McGonagall appears in the story's very first chapter, helping deliver baby Harry to the Dursleys before becoming a key ally during his Hogwarts years.

McTeer's distinguished career includes The Menu, Albert Nobbs, and Ozark.

The role was famously played by Dame Maggie Smith throughout the original film series.

Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape

Emmy-nominated rising star Paapa Essiedu faces the challenge of following Alan Rickman's legendary portrayal of the complex Potions master. Snape's complicated history with Harry's parents creates one of the series' most compelling character arcs.

Essiedu recently earned praise for I May Destroy You and appearances in Men and Black Mirror.

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

The iconic half-giant gamekeeper role goes to comedy veteran Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz). Hagrid's pivotal early actions set Harry's magical journey in motion, and he remains one of the trio's most loyal supporters.

Robbie Coltrane originated the role in the films between 2001-2011.

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

Relative newcomer Luke Thallon will portray Harry's first Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, whose nervous demeanor hides dark secrets.

The character was previously played by Ian Hart in Philosopher's Stone.

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

BAFTA-winner Paul Whitehouse will bring new life to Hogwarts' grouchy caretaker and his feline companion Mrs. Norris, a role originated by David Bradley.

Major Characters Still to Be Cast:

• Harry Potter
• Ron Weasley
• Hermione Granger
• Lord Voldemort
• Draco Malfoy
• Sirius Black
• Remus Lupin

Plus numerous other fan favorites including the Weasley family, Professors Umbridge and Trelawny, and beloved supporting characters like Luna Lovegood and Neville Longbottom.

For more coverage, explore our ranking of essential Harry Potter characters, details about HBO's series producers, and guides for reading the original books.