Magical casting unveiled for HBO's Harry Potter series

HBO's highly anticipated Harry Potter series has unveiled an all-star line-up of talent set to lead the next chapter of the billion-dollar franchise.

Stepping into the role of Albus Dumbledore is six-time Emmy winner and Oscar nominee John Lithgow, while acclaimed British actor Janet McTeer takes on Minerva McGonagall.

Paapa Essiedu, known for I May Destroy You, will portray Severus Snape, and British comedian and actor Nick Frost will step into the beloved boots of Rubeus Hagrid.

Joining the regular cast are Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell and five-time BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse as the cantankerous caretaker Argus Filch.

John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, Paapa Essiedu, Nick Frost, Luke Thallon and Paul Whitehouse

"We are happy to announce the casting of John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, Paapa Essiedu, Nick Frost, Luke Thallon and Paul Whitehouse to play Dumbledore, McGonagall, Snape, Hagrid, Quirrell and Filch,” said showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod.

"We're delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life."

A strategic play for global subscribers

The series is being pitched as a faithful, long-form adaptation of J.K. Rowling's original Harry Potter books, designed to reintroduce the wizarding world to a new generation while retaining the core appeal that has fuelled the franchise for over two decades.

Set to stream exclusively on Max in global markets including the UK, Germany, Turkey and Italy, the project reflects Warner Bros. Discovery's broader ambitions to compete for long-term subscriber growth through prestige IP and cross-generational appeal.

Behind the scenes: familiar names with franchise pedigree

Francesca Gardiner is writing and executive producing the series, with Mark Mylod directing multiple episodes and also serving as executive producer.

The project is produced by HBO in association with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television, with J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts and Harry Potter film series producer David Heyman all on board.

Keep on top of the most important media, marketing, and agency news each day with the Mediaweek Morning Report – delivered for free every morning to your inbox.