- A Harry Potter TV show will soon be on our screens
- But who are the actors being considered for the roles which made household names of the likes of Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson?
- Pubity.com takes a look at those who are being considered for the roles of Dumbledore, Voldemort – and, of course, Harry himself…
Harry Potter fans, rejoice – as a new TV show based on the magical franchise is officially in the works.
The series will follow the novels by JK Rowling, and is set to air within the next few years.
But although Potterheads across the globe will have to wait a little while for the show to reach our screens, rumors are already swirling as to who will play each character.
But which actors are in the running? Pubity.com takes a look…
Who will play Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter TV show?
So far, four actors have portrayed the role of the Hogwarts headmaster, Professor Albus Dumbledore: Richard Harris, Michael Gambon, Toby Regbo (in Deathly Hallows flashbacks) and Jude Law (in the Fantastic Beasts films).
And in November, Variety reported that another famous face could be joining that lineup – Mark Rylance.
The Academy Award winner is currently wowing audiences for his performance as Thomas Cromwell in Wolf Hall: The Mirror and The Light.
Rylance, 64, is also known for Stephen Spielberg collaborations Bridge of Spies, The BFG and Ready Player One.
However, while we think he would be a magical fit to the part, Rylance’s involvement in the Harry Potter TV series remains unconfirmed for now.
Who will play Severus Snape in the Harry Potter TV show?
The role of Hogwarts professor Severus Snape is one that has become synonymous with Alan Rickman – the late actor who played the part in the movie franchise.
However, this month, The Hollywood Reporter claimed that Paapa Essiedu could be in the running to play the Head of Slytherin House.
Beginning his career in theatre, audiences will recognize Essiedu, 34, from his roles in I May Destroy You, Gangs of London and The Lazarus Project.
The actor will also make a guest appearance in Netflix’s brand new spy thriller Black Doves, which stars Kiera Knightley and Ben Whishaw.
Again, Essiedu’s involvement is yet to be confirmed – with HBO releasing a statement to say they will not acknowledge any casting rumours until the stars have signed on the dotted line.
“We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumour and speculation,” said a spokesperson. “As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals.”
Who will play Lord Voldemort in the Harry Potter TV show?
With Ralph Fiennes cast as the evil Lord Voldemort in many of the movies, fans are eager to find out who could possibly be taking on the role in the TV show.
One huge name which was being floated was Cillian Murphy, 48 – but this whisper has sadly been debunked.
Sources say that the rumors are “not correct” – which may come as a disappointment to Fiennes!
During an appearance on Watch What Happens Live, the actor said, “Cillian is a fantastic actor. I actually think that’s a wonderful, wonderful suggestion. I would be all in favour of Cillian.”
Who will play Harry, Ron and Hermione in the Harry Potter TV show?
The Harry Potter movies made household names of Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson – who grew up on screen as best friends Harry, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger.
And just as the trio went from being unknown actors to huge child stars, HBO is following suit by setting up a huge casting call.
To be eligible for the roles of Harry, Ron or Hermione, children must be between the ages of nine and 11 in April 2025 and be residents of the UK or Ireland.
The network also says it is “committed to inclusive, diverse casting”.
“For every role, please submit qualified performers, without regard to ethnicity, sex, disability, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by law unless otherwise specifically indicated,” says the casting call.
To apply, children must send two self-tapes – videos of those auditioning – with one being “a short poem or story” (though nothing from Harry Potter!). The second states for applicants to “tell us a bit about yourself, including your date of birth, height and where you live”.
It also asks for children to use their own accents.
