HBO is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations with acclaimed actor John Lithgow, known for his role as Lord Farquaad in Shrek, to portray the iconic Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in the much-anticipated Harry Potter reboot series. According to Variety, Lithgow is on the verge of securing this pivotal role, although HBO has not yet confirmed the casting. This news comes on the heels of a previous report from Variety in November, which suggested that Mark Rylance was the top choice for Dumbledore.
An HBO spokesperson addressed the swirling rumors, 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." This cautious approach highlights the network's commitment to managing expectations and maintaining confidentiality during the casting process.
John Lithgow's illustrious career spans numerous acclaimed performances, including roles in The World According to Garp, Terms of Endearment, Footloose, Dexter, and The Crown, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor.
John Lithgow. Photo by Christopher Polk/Variety via Getty Images.
While casting details remain tightly under wraps, reports suggest HBO is diligently searching for actors to fill the roles of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley. Additionally, Paapa Essiedu is rumored to have been cast as Severus Snape, adding to the excitement surrounding the series.
The upcoming Harry Potter series aims to stay true to its British roots, a decision that aligns with the involvement of the original author, J.K. Rowling, who is "fairly involved" in the casting process. Announced in April 2023, the show promises to deliver a "faithful adaptation" of the beloved novels, offering a more in-depth exploration of the story than what was possible in the two-hour film format.
The series will be helmed by Succession producers Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod, the latter of whom also contributed to Game of Thrones, ensuring a high standard of storytelling and production quality.
