The upcoming Harry Potter HBO series is generating buzz with casting possibilities, including standout choices like John Lithgow as Dumbledore and various options for Snape. Recently, they’ve identified an ideal candidate for a significant role.
Nick Frost is set to portray the new Hagrid, a pivotal character known for his presence in the earlier parts of the series. Frost gained fame from his collaborations with Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg in comedies such as “Shaun of the Dead,” “Hot Fuzz,” and “The World’s End.” Although that last film came out over a decade ago, Frost has continued to work on numerous projects, including voice roles in animated series.
Taking on the role of Hagrid could be Frost’s most significant performance to date, especially considering the controversial decision to revamp the cast, but he is likely to shine on MAX/HBO as the anticipated series launches. Unlike Lithgow, who may be under 10 years younger, Frost, currently 52, should age well for the role.
Robbie Coltrane, who originally played Hagrid in the films, sadly passed away in 2022. With this reboot featuring an entirely new cast, the legacy of his portrayal still looms large, and it remains to be seen if Frost can capture that same magic.
A key challenge ahead is casting the central trio of Harry, Hermione, and Ron, as it’s important to find fresh, young talent for these roles, mirroring the approach taken in the original films. The role of Voldemort, previously played by Ralph Fiennes, is also yet to be filled.
It’s expected that the series won’t debut until at least 2027, especially considering the extensive source material. It’s likely to span seven seasons, given the typical release schedule can take 1.5 to 2 years between seasons for major productions. If the show proceeds as planned, it could extend into the late 2030s, but Warner Bros. seems committed to bringing this adaptation to life.
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