John Lithgow Cast as Dumbledore in New Harry Potter TV Series

United Kingdom — John Lithgow has officially been cast as the new Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming Harry Potter television reboot, set to premiere in 2026, following much anticipation among fans and the industry.

The 79-year-old actor expressed both excitement and apprehension during an appearance on BBC’s The One Show on April 16, 2025. “Very excited, very intimidated,” Lithgow said, reflecting on the weight of stepping into a role previously portrayed by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon. He acknowledged concerns from fans about his American nationality, adding, “I know there were plenty of people appalled that an American should be hired to play the ultimate English wizard, but I will do my best.”

The actor is best known for his role as Winston Churchill in The Crown, where he garnered critical acclaim, including an Emmy Award. Lithgow humorously reminded audiences of his experience portraying British figures, stating, “I’m not an Englishman, although I’ve played one on TV. I remind everyone that I did play Winston Churchill on The Crown and did just fine.”

In addition to Lithgow, the cast for the series includes notable actors such as Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell, and Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch. According to Deadline, the show’s writer-showrunner is Francesca Gardiner.

The original portrayal of Dumbledore by Harris began in the first film, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, released in 2001. His untimely death in 2002 led to Gambon’s casting, starting with Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban in 2004. The character has since become one of the most beloved figures in the franchise.

As excitement builds for the series, reports indicate that approximately 32,000 children auditioned for the lead roles of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley. The considerable interest showcases the franchise’s enduring appeal to new generations.

Despite the excitement surrounding the cast, the series has not been free from controversy. J.K. Rowling, the original author, who will serve as an executive producer, has faced backlash for her comments regarding the trans community, making her a polarizing figure among fans. On the same day as Lithgow’s interview, she issued a statement responding to a UK Supreme Court ruling defining ‘sex’ and ‘woman’ in law, asserting the ruling protected the rights of women and girls.

In light of this controversy, Sophie Molly, a Scottish trans rights campaigner, criticized the decision, stating, “Trans rights are being stripped away under the pretence of defending women’s rights. Trans women are women. There should be no separate law for cis and trans women. To have such a thing take effect is extreme discrimination… We will overcome. We will never give in.”

As the production gears up at Warner Bros Studios Leavesden in the summer of 2025, fans remain curious about how the new cast will reinterpret these iconic characters while navigating the broader societal discussions surrounding the franchise.

Through his extensive background in theater and television, Lithgow brings a wealth of talent to the role of Dumbledore. As he prepares to take on this defining character, he emphasized his determination to prove the skeptics wrong, stating, “I will do my best.” With both nostalgia and fresh perspectives on the horizon, the Harry Potter TV reboot promises to enchant audiences worldwide.