HBO's highly anticipated Harry Potter TV series is making headway, with the first major casting announcement: the legendary John Lithgow will portray the iconic Professor Dumbledore. This news comes after an extensive search for the perfect actor to fill the role.
In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Lithgow confirmed his acceptance of the part, describing it as a pivotal moment in his career. He stated, “Well, it came as a total surprise to me. I just got the phone call up at the Sundance Film Festival for yet another film, and it was not an easy decision because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid. But I’m very excited. Some wonderful people are turning their attention back to Harry Potter. That’s why it’s been such a hard decision. I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”
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While this marks the first official casting announcement, it's important to note that HBO and Warner Bros. haven't yet formally confirmed Lithgow's involvement. The series will be a complete re-adaptation of J.K. Rowling's books, featuring a fresh cast portraying beloved characters like Harry, Hermione, Ron, and the entire Hogwarts crew. Rowling herself will serve as an executive producer, alongside Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts.
Given that the full cast is yet to be assembled, the show is likely still some time away from commencing production. Lithgow, a highly accomplished actor known for roles such as Dick Solomon in *3rd Rock from the Sun* and his Emmy-winning portrayal of Winston Churchill in *The Crown*, brings a wealth of experience to the role.
