Wands Up: HBO’s New Harry Potter Cast Is Stirring the Cauldron
Move over Hogwarts alumni—there’s a new class in town. HBO is officially assembling its dream cast for the upcoming Harry Potter reboot, and the internet is spellbound (and maybe a little divided). Here's who’s been cast so far—and what fans are whispering behind the scenes.
🪄 Who’s In So Far?
- Dumbledore: John Lithgow — yes, that John Lithgow — is taking over as the wise headmaster. Cue the Twitter debates over whether an American can really do the role justice.
- McGonagall: Janet McTeer is stepping into the tartan. Regal, commanding, and already getting fan approval.
- Snape: Paapa Essiedu’s casting sparked convo. Some are defending the fresh take, others are clinging to their Alan Rickman nostalgia.
- Hagrid: Comedy king Nick Frost has been tapped for the half-giant with a heart. Big vibes incoming.
- Filch & Quirrell: Paul Whitehouse and Luke Thallon round out the classic Hogwarts staff crew.
🎬 What We Know About the Reboot
- Set to drop in 2026 with Francesca Gardiner (Succession) running the show.
- HBO plans to faithfully adapt each book into its own season, starting with the Sorcerer’s Stone.
- They're casting age-appropriate unknowns for Harry, Ron, and Hermione after 30K+ auditions. We love a clean slate!
- Yes, J.K. Rowling is still involved as an executive producer, and yes, that’s causing buzz (and side-eyes) online.
👀 Fan Take: Worth the Re-Spell?
Fans are torn: some can’t wait to dive deeper into the books’ untapped storylines, others are nervous the magic might not strike twice.
🔮 Your Turn: Got thoughts? Drop your fan cast or hot take in our Scoop Inbox.
Let’s see who YOU would cast as Draco Malfoy…
