HBO and Warner Bros. Entertainment have officially unveiled the first six cast members for the upcoming Harry Potter television series. The series, planned as a more faithful adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s novels, has cast a mix of established talent and emerging actors in roles that remain iconic thanks to the film portrayals that came before them. Below is a comparison between the newly announced cast and their predecessors in the original Harry Potter film series.
Rubeus Hagrid
- Original Actor: Robbie Coltrane
- New Actor: Nick Frost
Robbie Coltrane’s Hagrid was a gentle giant, bringing both a gruff exterior and deep emotional warmth to the half-giant character. His performance balanced humor with pathos, making Hagrid one of the most beloved characters in the franchise. Nick Frost, best known for his comedic roles in Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, offers a different comedic sensibility. While not as physically imposing, Frost’s background suggests he may deliver a more whimsical and lighthearted Hagrid. The key for Frost will be balancing the jovial charm with the deeper emotional stakes that Hagrid often embodies.
Albus Dumbledore
- Original Actors: Richard Harris (Philosopher’s Stone, Chamber of Secrets), Michael Gambon (remaining films)
- New Actor: John Lithgow
Richard Harris gave Dumbledore an ethereal, almost mythical aura, while Michael Gambon’s later portrayal emphasized vigor and urgency, at times to divisive effect. John Lithgow brings significant dramatic range, with experience in both theater and television (The Crown, Dexter). He possesses the gravitas needed for the headmaster of Hogwarts but can also portray whimsy and wisdom. Lithgow’s interpretation may bridge Harris’ tenderness and Gambon’s strength, giving Dumbledore a fuller emotional spectrum.
Argus Filch
- Original Actor: David Bradley
- New Actor: Paul Whitehouse
David Bradley’s portrayal of Filch was curmudgeonly and menacing, offering comic relief while also maintaining an unnerving presence in the castle. Paul Whitehouse, known for his work on The Fast Show and Ghosts, has extensive comedic experience. His take on Filch could veer more towards a tragicomic figure—still bitter and intrusive, but perhaps with greater nuance and exaggerated pathos. His background in sketch comedy suggests he will deliver a character that feels both eccentric and oddly pitiable.
Quirinus Quirrell
- Original Actor: Ian Hart
- New Actor: Luke Thallon
Ian Hart’s Quirrell was timid, skittish, and ultimately revealed to be hiding a great darkness. Luke Thallon, a rising talent with notable performances in Industry and The Great, may approach the role with a subtler, more psychologically layered portrayal. His youth and expressive presence could heighten the contrast between Quirrell’s apparent innocence and his final revelation, potentially making the twist even more startling for new audiences.
Severus Snape
- Original Actor: Alan Rickman
- New Actor: Paapa Essiedu
Alan Rickman’s Snape became a defining element of the film series, imbuing the character with icy sarcasm, brooding menace, and emotional depth. Paapa Essiedu, recognized for I May Destroy You and The Lazarus Project, is an award-winning stage and screen actor capable of conveying intense inner turmoil. His performance could offer a more youthful, emotionally volatile Snape. Rather than emulate Rickman’s controlled demeanor, Essiedu may portray a man visibly burdened by grief, resentment, and moral complexity, offering a new angle on the character’s evolution.
Minerva McGonagall
- Original Actor: Maggie Smith
- New Actor: Janet McTeer
Maggie Smith’s portrayal of McGonagall was iconic—stern, witty, and deeply principled. Janet McTeer brings considerable experience and an authoritative presence from roles in Ozark and Jessica Jones. She may amplify the character’s commanding nature while still preserving McGonagall’s protective instincts and dry humor. Her physicality and vocal range may also lend a more formidable edge to the professor, reinforcing her role as a moral anchor at Hogwarts.
Harry Potter TV series from HBO is currently targeting a release date in 2026/27.
