Magic is returning to Hogwarts, and a new face will be stepping into the role of one of its most legendary wizards. HBO’s Harry Potter television series has reportedly found its Albus Dumbledore, with veteran actor John Lithgow confirming that he has accepted the part after being in final talks to play the character. In an interview with Screen Rant, Lithgow acknowledged that taking on the role will likely define the “last chapter” of his career. If the casting holds, he will follow in the footsteps of Richard Harris and Michael Gambon, who brought the beloved headmaster to life in the original films.
The search for a new Dumbledore has been ongoing for some time, and while HBO has yet to make an official announcement, Lithgow himself has no reservations about confirming his involvement. Speaking candidly about the decision, he revealed that the offer came unexpectedly.
“Well, it came as a total surprise to me. 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,” he said. “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.”
Casting for other key roles remains ongoing, but reports indicate that I May Destroy You star Paapa Essiedu is a strong contender for the role of Severus Snape. Meanwhile, Warner Bros. held an open casting call for young actors aged 9 to 11 in late 2024, signaling that fresh faces will take on the iconic roles of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley. Given the franchise’s legacy, expectations are high, and HBO appears determined to deliver a series that lives up to the magic of the original books.
Lithgow’s extensive career spans film, television, and theatre, making him a formidable choice for the role. While he may be best known for his comedic turn as Dick Solomon on 3rd Rock from the Sun, his dramatic chops are undeniable. His portrayal of Winston Churchill in The Crown earned him an Emmy, and he has tackled a variety of roles that demonstrate his ability to balance warmth, authority, and quiet power — qualities essential to playing Dumbledore.
The Harry Potter series remains one of the most beloved franchises in modern literature and film. A new cast, a fresh vision, and a commitment to faithfully adapting Rowling’s books suggest that this could be the definitive long-form retelling of the wizarding world’s most famous story. With John Lithgow stepping into the robes of Dumbledore, one of the most crucial pieces of the puzzle is now in place. The next step is finding the trio who will bring Harry, Hermione, and Ron to life for a new generation.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, and anime — you name it. When she’s not reading or being a dedicated cinephile, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of Caleb from Love and Deepspace.
Kevin Low
