All stars rumored and confirmed to appear on HBO's Harry Potter series

The Harry Potter series is looking to be a big TV event. The show, which will start production in 2025 and release in 2026 or 2027, promises to deliver a loyal adaptation of J.K. Rowling's iconic books. Although Warner Bros. has not yet announced its Harry, Ron, and Hermione, some big names have already been officially confirmed, while others are still speculative.

Perhaps the biggest surprise Harry Potter series casting news is John Lithgow, who has been confirmed to play Albus Dumbledore. In an interview, Screen Rant spoke to Lithgow about his decision to take the role, and he revealed that accepting the role was "not an easy decision" but stated he was "very excited" to be a part of a new era of Harry Potter.

Other Harry Potter series prospectus cast members whose roles await confirmation despite ongoing negotiations include Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape and Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall. Meanwhile, rumors surround the likes of Brett Goldstein as Hagrid and Cillian Murphy as either Quirrell or Voldemort, though nothing has been officially confirmed.

Here is a list of who is officially on board and who is still in the running.

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Confirmed cast of HBO's Harry Potter series

John Lithgow's casting as Dumbledore is a shock change for the franchise, since he is an American actor portraying a role normally filled by British actors. Yet, with six Emmys and a long career in film and television (Dexter, The Crown, 3rd Rock from the Sun), he is not unfamiliar with demanding performances.

Lithgow himself recognized the test that lay ahead, telling Screen Rant,

“I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes”.

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Rumored cast of HBO's Harry Potter series

Among the largest reported names is Brett Goldstein (Ted Lasso, Shrinking), who has been mentioned for the role of Rubeus Hagrid.

Though he does not have the hulking physique normally attributed to the character, Deadline suggests that HBO has previously managed to reshape actors, citing Colin Farrell's reshaping into The Penguin in The Batman.

Cillian Murphy, fresh from his Oscar-winning appearance in Oppenheimer, was rumored for both roles: Professor Quirinus Quirrell and Lord Voldemort. Although Murphy is “being eyed” for Quirrell according to CBR, there are rumors that he would also be a contender for Voldemort in the Harry Potter series.

Indeed, Ralph Fiennes, who initially portrayed the Dark Lord in the movies, has approved, saying to Variety,

“Cillian is a fantastic actor… I would be all in favor”.

But, as Voldemort does not physically appear until the fourth book, Goblet of Fire, casting for the role is probably years off.

Another Harry Potter series casting rumor is Phoebe Waller-Bridge as Aunt Petunia Dursley. If true, the Indiana Jones and Fleabag actress would infuse the part of Harry's abusive and neglectful guardian with much-needed sass.

Although Comic Book Movie reports that she has been "offered the role" on the Harry Potter series, nothing has been confirmed.

Paapa Essiedu, who is most famous for I May Destroy You and Murder on the Orient Express, has been officially in talks to be in the cast as Severus Snape.

His potential casting brings a major change to the character's interpretation, with Deadline reporting that the role, traditionally played by white actors, will be performed by a Black actor. With Essiedu's award-winning performances, fans are excited to see his interpretation of the mysterious Potions Master.

Janet McTeer, a talented actress from Ozark and Jessica Jones, is also in final talks to portray Minerva McGonagall. Although initially mentioned as a favorite in line with Sharon Horgan and Rachel Weisz, McTeer is now the top choice according to Deadline. With her authority and incredible range, she seems perfectly apt to depict McGonagall's seriousness and devotion.

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The Harry Potter series will be available on HBO and Max.