HBO’s Harry Potter Series Rounds Out Cast with McTeer and Essiedu

LOS ANGELES, March 7, 2025 – HBO is reportedly closing in on two key cast members for its high-profile adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter series. Oscar- and Emmy-nominated actress Janet McTeer is in negotiations to portray Professor Minerva McGonagall, while Emmy nominee Paapa Essiedu is finalizing his deal to play Professor Severus Snape.

These announcements follow the exclusive news that John Lithgow will play Professor Albus Dumbledore in the series. HBO declined to comment on the casting developments, stating, “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.”

The ambitious Harry Potter series aims to run over a decade and is spearheaded by writer-showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director/executive producer Mark Mylod. In a previous announcement, Casey Bloys, HBO and Max Content chairman and CEO, described the show as a “faithful adaptation” of J.K. Rowling’s novels, emphasizing its intent to explore each book in detail.

With this renewed adaptation, the series promises to adhere to the canonical ages of its characters. For instance, Snape will be depicted as only 31 years old at the series’ start. This decision aligns with the younger portrayals of characters like the Dursleys, providing a fresh perspective on the beloved story.

Janet McTeer, known for her roles in acclaimed projects such as Ozark, Tumbleweeds, and The Menu, will step into the role of McGonagall, a character originally played by Maggie Smith in the film series. McGonagall serves as the Deputy Headmistress and head of Gryffindor House at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Paapa Essiedu, acclaimed for his performance in the HBO series I May Destroy You, will take on the iconic role of Snape, succeeding the late Alan Rickman who portrayed the character in the film franchise. Snape is known as the strict Professor of Potions who ultimately transitions to become the Headmaster at Hogwarts.

Following a rigorous audition process, more than 32,000 children submitted tapes for the lead roles of Harry, Hermione, and Ron. The final casting choices for these pivotal characters remain unannounced.

The series will film at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, where the original Harry Potter films were made. Set to debut in late 2026 or early 2027, this project aims to invite a new generation into the wizarding world while also appealing to long-time fans.

HBO’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity within the Harry Potter universe continues with this casting choice, an effort previously highlighted with Noma Dumezweni as Hermione in the stage play, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

As more details emerge from casting decisions to plot developments, the excitement surrounding the series continues to build, promising a fresh yet familiar experience for fans around the world.