Fans of Harry Potter have been left stunned by the latest casting rumors surrounding HBO’s upcoming wizard series reboot.
Earlier this year, it was revealed that the network had started the search for actors to star in a fresh adaptation inspired by J.K. Rowling’s best-selling novels.
While no official casting has been confirmed yet, an astonishing 32,000 children are reported to have sent audition tapes for the lead roles of Harry, Hermione, and Ron. In the meantime, speculation continues to swirl about high-profile names being considered for the adult lead roles.
The latest name generating buzz is Ted Lasso star Brett Goldstein, who is rumored to be the frontrunner to portray Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved Hogwarts gamekeeper originally played by Robbie Coltrane in the original films. Fans, however, are voicing their disappointment and skepticism about Goldstein’s fit for the iconic role.
One user took to X/Twitter to express their concerns: “What next? Weasleys are gonna be blonde, Malfoys ginger and Harry will wear eye contacts?” Another fan chimed in with similar apprehensions: “Um Hagrid is supposed to be 8 feet tall and English.” A third person lightheartedly added: “I don’t know if the world is ready for sexy Hagrid.”
Brett Goldstein’s potential casting as Hagrid has sparked debate over whether his physical presence and character interpretation can do justice to the beloved half-giant figure.
Meanwhile, Francesca Gardiner, the showrunner for the HBO series, has already confirmed that the upcoming adaptation will differ significantly from the original Harry Potter films. One notable change is that the characters will be depicted at the same age as they are in the novels.
This means Snape, rumored to be played by Paapa Essiedu, will only be 31 years old, much younger than Alan Rickman’s interpretation in the original movies. Additionally, the Dursleys will also be younger compared to their film counterparts.
Ralph Fiennes, who famously portrayed Voldemort in the original series, has publicly endorsed Cillian Murphy as his ideal replacement to take on the role. Alongside this, producers are reportedly eyeing Mark Rylance, who is known for his work in Wolf Hall and other acclaimed performances, for the role of Albus Dumbledore.
Meanwhile, Sharon Horgan from Bad Sisters and Oscar-winning actress Rachel Weisz are also rumored contenders to step into the role of Minerva McGonagall, the former deputy headmistress of Hogwarts originally played by Dame Maggie Smith.
HBO has weighed in on the casting speculation, stating: “We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumour and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalise deals.”
The series is expected to begin filming this summer in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, the same location where the original Harry Potter movies were shot. The new series is tentatively scheduled to debut in late 2026 or early 2027.
Gardiner has promised that the reboot will include additional scenes in the Hogwarts staff room, while director Mylod has said he plans to “dig into the depths and crevices of Hogwarts,” offering new insights and storytelling that weren’t explored in the original films.
HBO CEO Casey Bloys has also confirmed that J.K. Rowling could have involvement with the series despite prior controversies surrounding her anti-trans views, which created division among members of the original Harry Potter cast. Bloys has stated that the network is “totally comfortable” working with Rowling and would rather focus on creative goals than “listen to fan conversation.”
The upcoming Harry Potter series represents an ambitious reimagining of Rowling’s iconic world, promising new adventures while honoring the magic of the beloved novels. As speculation continues and casting rumors swirl, the wizarding world eagerly awaits further developments.
