John Lithgow in Talks to Play Dumbledore in HBO's Harry Potter Series
John Lithgow is reportedly in final negotiations to portray Professor Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter television series, according to multiple sources. The six-time Emmy-winning actor, known for his roles in The Crown and 3rd Rock from the Sun, is set to take on the iconic role of the wise and enigmatic headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
The series, described as a “faithful adaptation” of J.K. Rowling’s beloved books, is being developed by writer/showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director/executive producer Mark Mylod. It aims to delve deeper into the source material than the original film series, which starred Richard Harris and Michael Gambon as Dumbledore. The show is expected to run for over a decade, with each season closely following the events of the books.
HBO has remained tight-lipped about the casting, 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 series is slated to begin filming at Warner Bros Studios Leavesden, the same location used for the original films, with a planned release in late 2026 or early 2027.
Lithgow, who recently starred in the Oscar-nominated film Conclave, has a history of playing British characters, including Winston Churchill, which may ease concerns about an American actor taking on the role. The casting of Dumbledore has sparked significant interest, with fans and critics alike speculating on how Lithgow will bring his own interpretation to the character.
The series will also feature a new cast for the central trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, following an open casting call for child actors aged nine to 11 in the UK and Ireland. The show promises to introduce a new generation to the wizarding world while honouring the legacy of the original films.
John Lithgow Nears Deal To Play Dumbledore In HBO’s ‘Harry Potter’ Series
John Lithgow is in final negotiations to portray Professor Albus Dumbledore in HBO's series adaptation of the hugely popular fantasy books.
deadline.com
John Lithgow set to play Dumbledore in Harry Potter TV series – reports
Actor reportedly in final negotiations to follow up performance in Oscar-nominated hit Conclave with key role in much-anticipated HBO series
www.theguardian.com
‘Harry Potter’ HBO Series Eyes John Lithgow to Play Dumbledore
John Lithgow is in final talks to play Albus Dumbledore in HBO's 'Harry Potter' series.
variety.com
John Lithgow In Final Talks To Play Dumbledore In HBO’s Harry Potter Series
The Conclave actor is in negotiations to play Hogwarts' headmaster in HBO's upcoming reboot. Read more at Empire.
www.empireonline.com
John Lithgow in Talks to Play Dumbledore in HBO’s ‘Harry Potter’ Series
The two-time Emmy winner would be the first actor to sign on to the project.
www.hollywoodreporter.com
John Lithgow might waste himself as the TV version of Dumbledore
John Lithgow might waste himself as the TV version of Dumbledore
www.avclub.com
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people.com