After a ton of speculation about who would be cast in the upcoming ‘Harry Potter’ series, HBO has finally given up the goods and confirmed six important cast members. Sorry nut no word on Harry, Ron or Hermione…yet.
Executive Producers Francesca Gariner made this statement about the new cast (as reported by Variety): “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…” Whitehouse is the only actor of the bunch to have appeared in the original film series (as Sir Cadogan). Four of these names have been tossed around for sometime now (Lithgow, McTeer, Essiedu & Frost), but it’s good to finally have an official statement.
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…
In a surprising move, the series has cast Luke Thallon, a relatively unknown actor that has basically only worked in theater. Thallonplays Quirrell, who is one of the most important characters in the first book. Can Thallon rise to the occasion? Hopefully for Harry Potter fans as the EP’s have stated that they want the show to go on for 10 straight years. With the massive amount of notoriety in the Harry Potter franchise, that’s definitely a realistic goal.
As of now, we are still awaiting news as to who’s been cut in the younger roles for the series, but this covers pretty much all of the most important adult roles. It’s still anyone’s guess who plays Harry – as that role could make or break this series and it’s hope for the future.
Will Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson or any of the original actors find their way back to the franchise for cameos or Easter Eggs to strengthen the nostalgia factor for the series? Anything is possible, especially when magic is involved! The series is expected to begin filming this summer and to release in 2026, so let’s hope they can keep on making solid casting moves and reboot this franchise into a new golden era.
What do you think? Will the ‘Harry Potter’ series deliver, or fall flat? Will high expectations put too much pressure on the cast and crew? What other big names will be added to the cast?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
