Harry Potter: HBO reportedly eyeing John Lithgow for the role of Albus Dumbledore

HBO’s Harry Potter television series which is slated for release in 2026-27 has started assembling their cast with the latest addition of John Lithgow. The veteran actor is reportedly in talks to play the role of Professor Dumbledore in the series.

The Harry Potter show, which will be an adaptation of the much-loved books by JK Rowling, is expected to be a high-profile series with immense production value. HBO refused to comment on the casting, disclosing in a statement,

‘As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals.’

The show will have Succession alum Francesca Gardiner as writer-showrunner and will be executive-produced and directed by Mark Mylod. Casey Bloys, Chairman and CEO, of HBO & Max Content said,

‘This new Max Original series will dive deep into each of the iconic books that fans have continued to enjoy for all of these years.’

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John Lithgow’s notable roles

The six-time Emmy-winning actor is known for his illustrious career in Hollywood and theatre. From playing the role of Winston Churchill in Netflix’s The Crown to Dick Solomon in 3rd Rock From The Sun, and Arthur Mitchell in Dexter, Lithgow has showcased his wide range of acting prowess over the many decades in the industry.

Along with remarkable television roles, he has also made a great impression on the silver screen with two Oscar nominations for his roles in The World According to Garp and Terms of Endearment. He is a two-time Tony Award winner with several sold-out shows including the recent role of Roald Dahl in the play Giant.

Lithgow recently appeared as a key player to decide the next Pope in the Oscar-nominated movie, Conclave.

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Professor Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series

The role of the Hogwarts headmaster, which was previously played by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon in the Harry Potter movies, is one of the more prominent characters. Jude Law also played the character’s younger version in the Fantastic Beasts movies.

The headmaster of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is a powerful wizard in the Harry Potter books. He seeks to bring down the dark wizard Lord Voldemort. His character is of a caring and affectionate leader, who mentors Harry Potter.

According to the rumor mills, there have been talks of other actors joining the famous cast line-up for the show including Paapa Essiedu as Professor Snape, Lesley Manville as Professor Minerva McGonagall, Brett Goldstein as Rubeus Hagrid, and Cillian Murphy as Lord Voldemort.

HBO is planning to release the Harry Potter series towards the end of 2026. The show is expected to run for a decade on the platform.

Watch this space to learn more about the show.