John Lithgow confirms he will be Dumbledore in HBO’s Harry Potter TV series amid casting buzz
John Lithgow confirms he will play Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV series after weeks of casting speculation. Here’s what we know so far.
After weeks of casting speculation, John Lithgow has officially confirmed that he will take on the iconic role of Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV series. The award-winning actor, known for his versatile performances, revealed in a recent interview that he has accepted the role, putting an end to fan debates over who would portray the legendary Hogwarts headmaster.
With HBO’s Harry Potter reboot set to bring a new generation of wizards to the screen, Lithgow’s casting as Dumbledore adds star power and excitement to the highly anticipated series. As the show begins production, fans are eager to see how Lithgow will bring his own interpretation to one of the most beloved characters in fantasy history.
John Lithgow breaks his silence on casting rumors
After weeks of speculation, John Lithgow has seemingly confirmed that he will be stepping into the role of Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s highly anticipated Harry Potter TV series. The 79-year-old actor revealed in an interview with ScreenRant that the opportunity came as an unexpected surprise, but he is now fully committed to the role.
"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," Lithgow shared.
The multi-season series aims to provide a more in-depth adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s seven-book saga, meaning Lithgow could be portraying Dumbledore for years to come.
Lithgow praises the creative team but acknowledges the commitment
While Lithgow expressed excitement about the project, he also acknowledged that taking on the iconic wizarding role is a major commitment.
Michael Gambon & Richard Harris have previously played Dumbledore in the Harry Potter movies. Photo: ScreenRant
"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," he joked.
Despite the long-term nature of the role, Lithgow spoke highly of the creative team behind the reboot, calling them “wonderful” and expressing confidence in their vision.
Has HBO officially cast Lithgow as Dumbledore?
Although Lithgow has hinted at his involvement, his deal has not been officially finalized. A spokesperson for HBO responded to casting rumors 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."
This leaves room for uncertainty, but Lithgow remains the strongest contender for the role of Dumbledore so far.
Casting process for Harry, Hermione, and Ron has begun
Since its announcement in April 2023, details about HBO’s Harry Potter adaptation have been kept under wraps. However, it has been confirmed that the show will be a "faithful adaptation" of Rowling’s books, with the author serving as an executive producer.
HBO would be looking for a fresh cast in the new Harry Potter adaptation. Photo Deadline
Additionally, the search for the new Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley is already underway.
In September 2023, casting call posters revealed that children between the ages of 9 and 11 who reside in Ireland or the U.K. were eligible to audition for the iconic trio.
Meanwhile, other actors have expressed interest in joining the project. Gary Oldman, who played Sirius Black in the original films, jokingly suggested that he might return to the wizarding world—this time as Dumbledore.
"Maybe in a few years, I could do Dumbledore," Oldman quipped in an interview with IndieWire. However, he acknowledged that HBO is likely looking for a completely fresh cast.