What do you miss?
John Lithgow responded to the criticism following his casting as Professor Dumbledore in the upcoming Harry Potter TV series, stating, “I’ll do my best.”
HBO is revamping JK Rowling’s tale of the young wizard, introducing a new cast. The US network announced this week that Lithgow, known for his role in Third Rock from the Sun, will take on the role of Hogwarts’ headmaster.
However, some fans of the Harry Potter franchise expressed discontent over American actors portraying characters they view as quintessentially British.
What, how, why?
Lithgow was asked about his role during an interview on Wednesday, April 16th, where he mentioned, “It’s a very thrilling opportunity. I know many are upset that Americans are being cast to play the ultimate English wizard, but I will do my best.”
The actor expressed that he felt “very excited yet very challenged” by the prospect of portraying Dumbledore.
“I follow in the footsteps of the great Michael Gambon,” he noted, adding that while he has acted on television, he is not British, reminding viewers of his portrayal of Winston Churchill in The Crown.
Who else is in the Harry Potter series?
It has also been announced that Paapa Essiedu will join the cast, taking on the role of Professor Severus Snape, the potions master at Hogwarts, originally portrayed by the late Alan Rickman in the films.
Additionally, Janet McGee Smith will be portraying Professor McGonagall, following the passing of the original actor last year. Nick Frost is set to step into the role of Hagrid, having dedicated an emotional Instagram post to the late Robbie Coltrane, who played Hagrid until his death in 2022. In his tribute, he expressed gratitude for being entrusted with the character of Rubeus Hagrid and promised not to disappoint.
As of now, there have been no announcements regarding the actors who will portray Harry (originally played by Daniel Radcliffe) or his friends Hermione (Emma Watson) and Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint).
The series is set to air on BBC One on weekdays at 7 PM.
