New names have reportedly been added to the cast of HBO’s highly anticipated ‘Harry Potter’ series, fueling speculation that the studio may be considering surprise actors for some key roles.
Earlier this week, it was reported that Paapa Essiedu was in talks to play Severus Snape. Deadline has revealed additional names rumored for several major supporting characters.
While no “official offer” has been made, ‘Dune: Prophecy’ star Mark Strong is reportedly being considered for the role of Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore. ‘Bad Sisters’ co-creator and star Sharon Horgan, as well as ‘Constantine and The Mummy’ alum Rachel Weisz, are rumored for the role of Deputy Headmistress Minerva McGonagall. Meanwhile, ‘Ted Lasso’ and ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ actor Brett Goldstein is reportedly in line to portray Hagrid.
HBO has remained tight-lipped about the casting process, responding to inquiries with the following statement: “We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals.”
The studio is also searching for newcomers to play the three lead roles of Harry, Ron and Hermione, launching an open casting call for kids aged between 9 and 11. Warner Bros. Discovery is reportedly “hoping to populate the adult cast with some of the U.K.’s best-known actors.”
The show’s official logline reads: “The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. The series will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters Harry Potter fans have loved for over twenty-five years.”
The ‘Harry Potter’ series does not yet have an official premiere date but is expected to debut sometime in 2026.
