‘Harry Potter’ HBO remake: Cast revealed for six major roles
Casting has been revealed for six of the major adult roles in HBO’s upcoming TV remake of the Harry Potter series.
Despite widespread speculation over which actors would assume the roles, HBO has now announced the first batch of initial casting for the show, adding that it promises to create a “faithful adaptation”.
As had been widely reported, John Lithgow will take on the role of Albus Dumbledore. Alongside him will be Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, and Nick Frost as Hagrid. All four will feature as series regulars, according to The Hollywood Reporter.In addition, Luke Thallon will play Quirinus Quirrel and Paul Whitehouse will appear as Argus Filch.
In light of the announcement of the casting, showrunner Francesca Gardiner said: “We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life.”
Classic actor Lithgow previously confirmed that he was set to star in the adaptation of the children’s books, explaining: “It was not an easy decision because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid. 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.”
HBO expects to start filming later this year. They have confirmed that they will adapt one book per series of the show.
None of the actors playing the leading younger roles of Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermoine Granger in the franchise reboot have yet been announced. However, HBO said last year that over 32,000 children had auditioned.
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