In a magical flourish that has set the wizarding world abuzz, HBO has unveiled a captivating lineup of actors for its upcoming Harry Potter television series, set to reimagine J.K. Rowling’s iconic saga for a new generation. Announced on June 9, 2025, the latest casting reveals include the Malfoy family, the Dursleys, Molly Weasley, Cornelius Fudge, and several Hogwarts students, bringing fresh faces and seasoned talent to the highly anticipated adaptation. Slated to premiere in 2026, the series will begin filming this summer at Leavesden Studios in the U.K., the storied location of the original Harry Potter films.
The Malfoys: Slytherin’s Scheming Elite
The Malfoy family, synonymous with Slytherin arrogance and cunning, will be brought to life by two compelling actors. Newcomer Lox Pratt steps into the role of Draco Malfoy, Harry’s sharp-tongued rival at Hogwarts, taking over from Tom Felton’s memorable portrayal in the films. Lox Pratt’s fresh perspective is expected to capture Draco’s complex blend of bravado and vulnerability. Meanwhile, Johnny Flynn, known for his nuanced performances in Lovesick and Emma, will play Lucius Malfoy, Draco’s formidable father and a key player in the wizarding world’s power struggles. Johnny Flynn’s casting promises a chilling yet charismatic take on the role originally embodied by Jason Isaacs, setting the stage for the Malfoys’ scheming influence.
The Dursleys: Muggle Misery on Privet Drive
Harry Potter’s insufferable Muggle relatives, the Dursleys, have also been cast, with Bel Powley and Daniel Rigby portraying Petunia and Vernon Dursley, respectively. Bel Powley, celebrated for her roles in The Diary of a Teenage Girl and The Morning Show, will bring depth to Petunia, the resentful aunt whose disdain for magic shapes Harry’s early years. Daniel Rigby, a versatile British actor known for Eric and Flowers, takes on Vernon, the blustering patriarch who loathes anything out of the ordinary. Unlike the films, where the Dursleys were depicted as older, HBO’s series aligns with the books’ timeline, presenting them in their 20s and 30s during Harry’s childhood. The role of Dudley Dursley, Harry’s spoiled cousin, remains uncast, keeping anticipation high for future announcements.
Molly Weasley: A Heartwarming Presence
Katherine Parkinson, beloved for her comedic and dramatic work in The IT Crowd, has been cast as Molly Weasley, the warm and fiercely protective matriarch of the Weasley family. Katherine Parkinson’s portrayal is expected to capture Molly’s nurturing spirit and formidable strength, qualities that made Julie Walters’ film performance so iconic. Her casting ensures that the Weasley household will remain a beacon of love and loyalty in the series, offering Harry a surrogate family amidst his trials.
Hogwarts’ Vibrant Student Body
The halls of Hogwarts are coming alive with a new generation of students. Leo Earley will play Seamus Finnigan, the Gryffindor with a knack for accidental explosions, while Alessia Leoni and Sienna Moosah have been cast as Parvati Patil and Lavender Brown, respectively. These characters, integral to the social fabric of Hogwarts, will bring energy and authenticity to the school’s rivalries, friendships, and magical mishaps, enriching the series’ portrayal of wizarding adolescence.
Cornelius Fudge: Politics and Power
The wizarding world’s political sphere gains a new face with Bertie Carvel, known for playing Tony Blair in The Crown, cast as Cornelius Fudge, the Minister of Magic. Bertie Carvel’s Fudge is poised to navigate the character’s blend of charm and denial, a role previously portrayed by Robert Hardy in the films. His performance will add depth to the Ministry of Magic’s response to the looming threat of Voldemort’s return, a pivotal element of the Harry Potter narrative.
A Stellar Ensemble and Faithful Vision
These casting announcements follow the earlier reveal of the series’ core trio: Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, chosen from over 32,000 auditions in a global casting call. The adult ensemble is equally impressive, with John Lithgow confirmed as Albus Dumbledore, joined by Janet McTeer, Paapa Essiedu, and Nick Frost in roles yet to be disclosed. Under the creative direction of showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod, both veterans of Succession, the series is poised to deliver a visually stunning and emotionally resonant adaptation. J.K. Rowling, an executive producer, has endorsed the casting choices, expressing confidence in their ability to honor her characters.
Unlike the condensed storytelling of the Harry Potter films, HBO’s series will unfold over multiple seasons, potentially spanning a decade, to fully explore the depth of Rowling’s seven novels. The adaptation will adhere closely to the books’ timelines, with characters like Severus Snape—whose casting remains under wraps—depicted at age 31, and the Dursleys reflecting their younger book ages. This commitment to fidelity promises a richer exploration of Hogwarts, the wizarding world, and its intricate lore, from the halls of the Ministry to the secrets of Diagon Alley.
As pre-production ramps up, HBO is keeping additional details close to the chest. A spokesperson stated, “We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals.” With filming on the horizon, the Harry Potter series is shaping up to be a magical milestone, blending nostalgia with fresh perspectives to enchant both longtime fans and newcomers. The wizarding world is ready to cast its spell once more.
Source: Press Release - HBO / Warner Bros. website
