The HBO Harry Potter TV series has hit a major milestone with the announcement of its first six cast members. While fans eagerly await news on who will portray iconic characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Lord Voldemort, the casting for pivotal roles such as Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others has been officially revealed. Let's delve into who has been chosen for these roles and who we can still expect to be cast.

Confirmed Cast:

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, takes on the role of Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts. Known for his wisdom and power, Dumbledore plays a crucial role as a mentor to Harry Potter and has a complex history with Gellert Grindelwald. Lithgow's extensive portfolio includes roles in 3rd Rock From the Sun, Dexter, The Crown, Shrek, and many more.

Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris in Sorcerer’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets, Michael Gambon in the subsequent films, with Toby Regbo and Jude Law portraying younger versions.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Tony and Golden Globe Award winner Janet McTeer will embody Professor Minerva McGonagall, a beloved Hogwarts faculty member and head of Gryffindor. She's introduced early in the series, notably in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, as she helps Dumbledore deliver baby Harry to the Dursleys. McTeer's notable works include Me Before You, The Menu, and Ozark.

Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films? Dame Maggie Smith in the original series and Fiona Glascott in the Fantastic Beasts series.

Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape

Emmy-nominated Paapa Essiedu steps into the role of Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions master and head of Slytherin. Snape's intricate relationship with Harry and his parents adds depth to the series. Essiedu has appeared in I May Destroy You, Black Mirror, and Gangs of London.

Who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films? Alan Rickman, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke playing younger versions.

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

Nick Frost will portray Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant and gamekeeper of Hogwarts. Hagrid's role in rescuing Harry from the Dursleys and guiding him into the wizarding world is iconic. Frost is known for his comedic roles in films like Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz.

Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane, with Martin Bayfield as the young Hagrid.

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

Luke Thallon will play Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. Thallon, a newcomer, has roles in The Favourite and Present Laughter.

Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart.

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse is set to play Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse's notable works include The Fast Show and The Death of Stalin.

Who played Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films? David Bradley.

Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:

Harry Potter
Ron Weasley
Hermione Granger
Lord Voldemort
Draco Malfoy
Sirius Black
Remus Lupin
Dolores Umbridge
Alastor Moody
Ginny Weasley
Luna Lovegood
Fred Weasley
George Weasley
Arthur Weasley
Molly Weasley
James Potter
Lily Potter
Bellatrix Lestrange
Neville Longbottom
Cedric Diggory
Dudley Dursley
Petunia Dursley
Vernon Dursley
Lucius Malfoy
Cho Chang
Seamus Finnigan
Dean Thomas
Gilderoy Lockhart
Dobby
Nearly Headless Nick
Moaning Myrtle
Sybill Trelawney
Filius Flitwick
And many more...

For more insights, explore our ranking of the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books, the producing duo leading HBO’s reboot, and our comprehensive guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.