"Harry Potter TV Series Reveals First Six Cast, Including Hagrid, Snape"

Warner Bros. and HBO have officially unveiled the first six actors who will breathe new life into iconic Hogwarts professors for the eagerly awaited Harry Potter series. After months of speculation about how the beloved story of Harry, Hermione, and Ron will be reimagined, fans now have a clearer picture of the cast.

John Lithgow, known for his roles in Conclave and Dexter, will take on the role of Albus Dumbledore, a fact he previously hinted at. Joining him are Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz) as Rubeus Hagrid and Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You, Black Mirror) as Severus Snape, both of whom were heavily rumored to be part of the cast. Completing the lineup are Janet McTeer (Me Before You, The Menu) as Minerva McGonagall, Luke Thallon (The Favourite, Present Laughter) as Quirinus Quirrell, and Paul Whitehouse (The Fast Show, Alice Through the Looking Glass) as Argus Filch.

(Top, left to right): John Lithgow (credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (credit: Ruth Crafer). (Bottom, left to right): Nick Frost (credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (credit Mike Marsland). Image provided by Warner Bros.

Showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner, along with director and executive producer Mark Mylod, expressed their excitement about the cast, stating, “We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life.”

Dumbledore, Hagrid, and Snape are not only pivotal characters within the Harry Potter universe but are also significant figures in broader pop culture. John Lithgow, in particular, has acknowledged the challenge of stepping into Dumbledore's shoes, commenting to ScreenRant in February, “I just got the phone call up at the Sundance Film Festival for yet another film, and it was not an easy decision because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid. But I’m very excited. Some wonderful people are turning their attention back to Harry Potter. That’s why it’s been such a hard decision. I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”

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While the Harry Potter series does not yet have a confirmed release date, it is slated to start filming soon. Details on how the series will diverge from the original novels or the film adaptations from the 2000s and early 2010s remain undisclosed. However, Warner Bros. has promised that the show will delve “a little bit more in depth than you can in just a two-hour film.” It's also confirmed that controversial author J.K. Rowling is involved in the show’s development.

For more updates on the Harry Potter series, including casting news for Harry, Hermione, and Ron, be sure to check out our latest articles.