John Lithgow to Portray Dumbledore in HBO's Harry Potter Series

HBO is forging ahead with its much-anticipated Harry Potter TV series, and the first casting news has finally surfaced: John Lithgow is set to take on the iconic role of Professor Dumbledore. HBO has been on the hunt for the perfect Dumbledore, and it seems their search has concluded. In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Lithgow confirmed his acceptance of the role, describing it as a defining moment for 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 working with the talented team bringing Harry Potter back to life, adding, "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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12 ImagesAlthough Lithgow's casting has been confirmed by the actor himself, it has not yet been officially announced by HBO or Warner Bros. This marks the first casting news for the upcoming Harry Potter TV series, which aims to re-adapt all of J.K. Rowling’s books for television. The series will feature a fresh cast portraying beloved characters such as Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, and the rest of the Hogwarts community. J.K. Rowling will serve as an executive producer alongside Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts.

Despite Lithgow's verbal commitment, the series still lacks a complete cast, indicating that production may still be some time away. John Lithgow, a seasoned actor with notable roles in film and television, is perhaps best recognized for his portrayal of Dick Solomon in the sitcom 3rd Rock from the Sun. He also garnered critical acclaim and an Emmy for his performance as Winston Churchill in the first season of Netflix's The Crown.