John Lithgow to Star as Albus Dumbledore in HBO's 'Harry Potter' Adaptation

John Lithgow is in advanced negotiations to portray Albus Dumbledore in HBO's highly anticipated adaptation of J.K. Rowling's beloved "Harry Potter" book series.

While HBO has acknowledged the casting speculation, they remain tight-lipped, stating, "We anticipate that such a renowned series will attract much conjecture. As we progress through pre-production, we will only divulge information as deals are finalized."

In the "Harry Potter" universe, Dumbledore serves as the revered headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As a powerful and enigmatic wizard, he guides Harry Potter in his battle against the nefarious Lord Voldemort. Richard Harris portrayed Dumbledore in the original two "Harry Potter" films, followed by Michael Gambon after Harris's passing.

Lithgow, an acclaimed actor with an illustrious career spanning decades, has graced the screen in films such as "The World According to Garp," "Terms of Endearment," and "Footloose." He has also captivated audiences in television series like "3rd Rock from the Sun," "Dexter," and "The Crown." Recently, he has appeared in FX's "The Old Man" and Focus Features' "Conclave."

Along with Lithgow's potential casting, Paapa Essiedu is rumored to be a frontrunner for the role of potions master Severus Snape. The iconic trio of Harry, Hermione, and Ron is expected to be portrayed by young, undiscovered actors, as Warner Bros. announced an open casting call in fall 2024 for children between the ages of 9 and 11.

HBO has emphasized that its "Harry Potter" adaptation will meticulously adhere to the original narrative, introducing a fresh ensemble to captivate a new generation of fans. The series, which is slated to span a decade, aims to present the beloved characters and intricate world-building that have captivated enthusiasts for over two decades, while acknowledging the enduring legacy of the original films.

Deadline first reported on Lithgow's potential casting. Stay tuned for further updates.

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* Harry Potter
* John Lithgow
* HBO
* Adaptation
* Albus Dumbledore