HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter reboot has found its Albus Dumbledore, and it is none other than the iconic actor John Lithgow. He confirmed his casting as the Hogwarts headmaster in the TV adaptation, and the news has sparked excitement and curiosity among fans.
The series promises to be a “faithful adaptation” of J.K. Rowling’s seven-book saga, is scheduled to premiere in 2026. Updates say each season is dedicated to each book, which means Lithgow’s tenure as Dumbledore could be up to a decade. Being the first confirmed cast member, his involvement has set the tone for what fans can expect in the new series.
John Lithgow adds a new perspective to Dumbledore
Lithgow’s casting as Dumbledore marks a significant shift for the Harry Potter franchise; unlike the film series, which exclusively cast British actors in major roles, HBO is opening the door to international talent. It is not Lithgow’s first attempt to adopt another accent, as he has played notable British roles like Winston Churchill in The Crown.
The 79-year-old expressed his mixed feelings of excitement and apprehension about his upcoming role, acknowledging that it will define his career’s final chapter. He admitted that the offer came as a shock.
John Lithgow built an impressive legacy
With hundreds of screen credits and a career spanning five decades, Lithgow is no stranger to high-profile roles, and has earned multiple awards. He currently holds Emmy Awards, amid widespread acclaim for his performances in 3rd Rock from the Sun, Dexter, and Killers of the Flower Moon.
As the HBO series takes shape, Lithgow’s portrayal of Dumbledore would be compared to those of Richard Harris, Michael Gambon, and Jude Law. Thankfully, Lithgow’s Dumbledore may be fitting for the new generation, and fans have shared their thoughts online. “Lithgow is going to wind up playing the two greatest Brits of the last 150 years or so (Dumbledore and Churchill), and I think that’s beautiful,” someone gushed.