HBO is pulling off a magic trick with its upcoming television adaptation of Harry Potter. Now that the famous wizard world is coming to the small screen, fans have learned who will be playing some of the adult characters at Hogwarts, including Dumbledore and Snape.
“We are happy to announce the casting of John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, Paapa Essiedu, Nick Frost, Luke Thallon and Paul Whitehouse to play Dumbledore, McGonagall, Snape, Hagrid, Quirrell and Filch,” showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner and director and EP Mark Mylod said in a statement. “We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life.”
HBO has described the TV series as a “faithful adaptation” of J.K. Rowling‘s books. “Exploring every corner of the wizarding world, each season will bring Harry Potter and its incredible adventures to new and existing audiences,” the description reads.
HBO has just confirmed the first 6 cast members for the ‘HARRY POTTER’ TV series:
• Nick Frost as Hagrid
• John Lithgow as Dumbledore
• Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch
• Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell
• Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
• Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall pic.twitter.com/RlsQ78N5bh— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) April 14, 2025
Below, get to know the cast of HBO’s forthcoming Harry Potter series.
John has been seen in countless film projects throughout his decades-long acting career. Among his most popular roles were in The World According to Garp, Terms of Endearment, Footloose, A Civil Action, Shrek, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Interstellar, Bombshell, Killers of the Flower Moon and, his latest Oscar winner, Conclave.
Janet has established herself as a successful film actress, having appeared in a variety of movies. Among her most famous performances were in Tumbleweeds, Carrington, As You Like It, The Divergent Series and The Menu. On TV, Janet has appeared in Into the Storm, The White Queen and Ozark.
