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In entertainment news, excitement is brewing again as Harry Potter fever returns to dominate Hollywood, this time with a new television series expected to run over the next decade. HBO and Warner Bros. are at the helm of this adaptation, generating much speculation about who will portray the iconic characters.
This new series will adapt JK Rowling’s books, with each season dedicated to a single book, leading to a new cast for familiar roles played by actors like Daniel Radcliffe, Alan Rickman, and Maggie Smith.
The casting calls for young characters Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger opened in September 2024 and are drawing significant attention.
Meanwhile, older character roles are also under consideration. While no casting has yet been finalized, rumors abound about potential actors stepping into these roles.
Albus Dumbledore: Reports suggest that John Lithgow is in serious discussions to portray Albus Dumbledore, Hogwarts’ headmaster. Should this be confirmed, it may mean Mark Rylance, initially favored for the role, has declined. Lithgow’s casting would follow Gary Oldman, who previously played Sirius Black, also expressing interest in this new project.
Severus Snape: There’s buzz that an actor known for his role in "Lazarus Project" might take on Snape, as he’s been recognized as an emerging star on both screen and stage.
Minerva McGonagall: Janet McTeer has emerged as a leading candidate to step into the shoes of McGonagall and is reportedly in negotiations according to Deadline.
Rubeus Hagrid: Actor Brett Goldstein is rumored to be the top choice for the role of Hagrid, originally portrayed by the late Robbie Coltrane.
Aunt Petunia Dursley: Allegations suggest that Phoebe Waller-Bridge may be considered for the role of Harry’s Aunt Petunia, previously played by Fiona Shaw.
Lord Voldemort: The coveted role of Voldemort is said to be eyed by Oscar winner Cillian Murphy, although there are claims he may also be lined up for another character in the series.
As for Sirius Black, speculation persists regarding Ben Barnes potentially playing the character, despite his later appearance in the storyline.
This buzz suggests that both Jessica Hynes and Peter Capaldi have been approached regarding short-term roles for filming set to begin in summer 2026.
