HBO is forging ahead with its highly anticipated Harry Potter TV series and has reportedly secured its first major casting: John Lithgow will take on the iconic role of Professor Dumbledore. HBO's search for a new Dumbledore has been ongoing, and it seems that their quest has come to an end. In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Lithgow confirmed his acceptance of the role, which he described as defining the "last chapter" of his life.
"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," Lithgow shared. He expressed excitement about the project, noting, "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 casting announcement for the upcoming Harry Potter TV series, it is important to note that HBO and Warner Bros. have yet to officially confirm Lithgow's involvement. HBO's ambitious plan is to re-adapt all of J.K. Rowling's books into a television format, featuring an entirely new cast to portray beloved characters such as Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, and the rest of the Hogwarts community. J.K. Rowling herself will serve as an executive producer, joined by Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts.
Despite Lithgow's verbal confirmation, the absence of a complete cast suggests that the series is still some time away from entering full production. John Lithgow, a seasoned actor with a rich history in both film and television, is perhaps best known for his role as Dick Solomon in the sitcom "3rd Rock from the Sun." He also received critical acclaim and an Emmy for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in the first season of Netflix's "The Crown."
