For over two decades, the faces of Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, and more actors have been synonymous with the famous characters of the Harry Potter movie series. But as HBO prepares to adapt J.K. Rowling’s iconic books into a decade-long TV series, starting with the Philosopher’s Stone (also known as the Sorcerer’s Stone), a new generation is stepping into the hallowed halls of Hogwarts.
Many fans believe the shift from film to television enables for a much deeper dive into the Wizarding World, but it also means they have to get used to a brand-new cast, which inevitably draws comparisons to the old cast. Here is how the new HBO Harry Potter stars stack up against the legendary original movie actors.
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Who is playing Harry Potter in the HBO series?
HBO series: Dominic McLaughlin
Original movie: Daniel Radcliffe
Harry Potter, the “Boy Who Lived” who’s destined to defeat Lord Voldemort, is the heart of the story and one of the most beloved fictional characters of all time. Taking on this massive role is Dominic McLaughlin, a newcomer in the industry who previously played in family comedy film Grow.
Taking over for Daniel Radcliffe is no small feat, but McLaughlin has a surprising supporter on his side. Radcliffe himself sent a letter to McLaughlin, saying: “I hope you have the best time, and an even better time than I did.”
Who is playing Ron Weasley in the HBO series?
HBO series: Alastair Stout
Original movie: Rupert Grint
The youngest son of the Weasley family, Ron provides the heart, humor, and occasional “bloody hell” that keeps the trio grounded. Alastair Stout has the task of following Rupert Grint’s pitch-perfect comedic timing.
Fans are hopeful that the HBO series will give Stout the chance to showcase Ron’s strategic brilliance and bravery, which were sidelined in the films sometimes in favor of comic relief.
Who is playing Hermione Granger in the HBO series?
HBO series: Arabella Stanton
Original movie: Emma Watson
The brightest witch of her age, Hermione is known for her intellect, serving as the brains of the trio. Arabella Stanton takes the mantle from Emma Watson.
While Watson’s portrayal turned Hermione into a global icon of girl power, Stanton, who appeared on West End musicals, is expected to lean into the more “book-accurate” version of the character. That said, you may see her capture Hermione’s relentless academic drive and occasional social awkwardness.
Who is playing Albus Dumbledore in the HBO series?
HBO series: John Lithgow
Original movie: Richard Harris and Michael Gambon
Albus Dumbledore, the wise and enigmatic headmaster of Hogwarts, plays a crucial role in guiding Harry throughout his journey. Casting the award-winning veteran John Lithgow is a major win for HBO. With decades of experience across film, television, and theater, Lithgow have the gravitas that could offer a unique interpretation of the beloved headmaster.
While Richard Harris brought the whimsy and Michael Gambon brought the intensity, Lithgow is known for his incredible range. Lithgow’s portrayal may strike a balance between those interpretations while leaning closer to the fantasy novels.
Who is playing Professor Severus Snape in the HBO series?
HBO series: Paapa Essiedu
Original movie: Alan Rickman
The Head of Slytherin House and Potions Master, Professor Snape is perhaps the most complex character in the series, defined by his ambiguous loyalties and tragic history. Paapa Essiedu, a highly acclaimed Ghanaian-English actor known for his work in I May Destroy You and the Royal Shakespeare Company, is taking over the role made iconic by the late Alan Rickman.
Unfortunately, the casting has faced a darker side of the Harry Potter fandom. In an interview with the Times of London, Essiedu revealed he has received racist death threats since the announcement. HBO boss Casey Bloys told Variety that the network is taking the situation very seriously, employing a “serious security team” and utilizing best practices for social media management to protect their cast.
Who is playing Minerva McGonagall in the HBO series?
HBO series: Janet McTeer
Original movie: Maggie Smith
Minerva McGonagall is the stern but fair Head of Gryffindor House and Transfiguration professor, a pillar of strength at Hogwarts. Replacing the legendary Maggie Smith is a tall order, but Janet McTeer is definitely qualified for the role.
A two-time Oscar nominee, McTeer has the natural authority and “steely gaze” necessary to keep a room full of rowdy wizards in check. Fans are excited to see her bring a slightly more physical, formidable energy to the role of Professor McGonagall.
Other key characters in Harry Potter HBO series (Philosopher’s Stone)
Rubeus Hagrid
HBO series: Nick Frost
Original movie: Robbie Coltrane
Draco Malfoy
HBO series: Lox Pratt
Original movie: Tom Felton
Dudley Dursley
HBO series: Amos Kitson
Original movie: Harry Melling
Vernon and Petunia Dursley
HBO series: Daniel Rigby (Vernon) and Bel Powley (Petunia)
Original movie: Richard Griffiths (Vernon) and Fiona Shaw (Petunia)
Professor Quirinus Quirrell
HBO series: Luke Thallon
Original movie: Ian Hart
All confirmed actors in the Harry Potter HBO series
Below are all the confirmed actors and the characters they portray in the Harry Potter TV series, based on a media release by Warner Bros. and HBO.
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Dominic McLaughlin | Harry Potter |
| Alastair Stout | Ron Weasley |
| Arabella Stanton | Hermione Granger |
| John Lithgow | Albus Dumbledore |
| Paapa Essiedu | Severus Snape |
| Janet McTeer | Minerva McGonagall |
| Nick Frost | Rubeus Hagrid |
| Lox Pratt | Draco Malfoy |
| Amos Kitson | Dudley Dursley |
| Daniel Rigby | Vernon Dursley |
| Bel Powley | Petunia Dursley |
| Luke Thallon | Quirinus Quirrell |
| Anton Lesser | Garrick Olivander |
| Katherine Parkinson | Molly Weasley |
| Gracie Cochrane | Ginny Weasley |
| Tristan Harland | Fred Weasley |
| Gabriel Harland | George Weasley |
| Ruari Spooner | Percy Weasley |
| Rory Wilmot | Neville Longbottom |
| Leo Earley | Seamus Finnigan |
| Elijah Oshin | Dean Thomas |
| Alessia Leoni | Parvati Patil |
| Sienna Moosah | Lavender Brown |
| Finn Stephens | Vincent Crabbe |
| William Nash | Gregory Goyle |
| Warwick Davis | Filius Flitwick |
| Sirine Saba | Pomona Sprout |
| Paul Whitehouse | Argus Filch |
| Johnny Flynn | Lucius Malfoy |
| Bertie Carvel | Cornelius Fudge |
| Richard Durden | Cuthbert Binns |
| Louise Brealey | Rolanda Hooch |
| Bríd Brennan | Poppy Pomfrey |
| Leigh Gill | Griphook |
HBO Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone trailer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How will the HBO Harry Potter series be different from the movies?
Evidently, the biggest difference is the luxury of time. While the movies had to condense 300 to 800-page books into two-hour blocks, the Harry Potter HBO series is expected to dedicate an entire season to each book. With a full TV format, the HBO version is expected to explore things the movies couldn’t, like deeper character backstories and more accurate relationships. We can anticipate it to be likely closer to the tone of the novels, especially in later seasons when the story becomes darker.
Will any original Harry Potter actors return?
At the time of writing, only one familiar face is officially returning to the halls of Hogwarts: Warwick Davis, who will reprise his role as Professor Filius Flitwick, the Charms Master. However, he is passing the torch for his other role, the goblin Griphook, to actor Leigh Gill.
As for the “Big Three” (Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint), there has been plenty of fan speculation about them appearing in the series finale’s “19 Years Later” epilogue. While it would be a poetic “full circle” moment, the actors have remained focused on supporting the new cast from the sidelines rather than stepping back into their old robes.
When is the HBO Harry Potter release date?
The Harry Potter TV series is officially scheduled to premiere on Christmas, December 25, 2026. HBO recently moved the date up from its original 2027 projection, making it the ultimate Christmas gift for fans. The first season, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, will consist of eight episodes, kicking off what is planned to be a decade-long journey through the books.
