"Harry Potter TV Series Reveals First Six Cast: Hagrid, Snape Included"

Warner Bros. and HBO have officially unveiled the first six actors who will portray iconic Hogwarts professors in the eagerly anticipated Harry Potter series. This announcement follows months of speculation and rumors about the new adaptation of Harry, Hermione, and Ron's adventures.

The cast includes John Lithgow, previously known for his roles in "Conclave" and "Dexter," who confirmed earlier that he would take on the role of Albus Dumbledore. Joining him are Nick Frost, famous from "Shaun of the Dead" and "Hot Fuzz," as Rubeus Hagrid, and Paapa Essiedu, recognized for his work in "I May Destroy You" and "Black Mirror," who will play Severus Snape. The ensemble is completed by Janet McTeer, known for "Me Before You" and "The Menu," as Minerva McGonagall, Luke Thallon from "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter" as Quirinus Quirrell, and Paul Whitehouse, seen in "The Fast Show" and "Alice Through the Looking Glass," as Argus Filch.

(Top, left to right): John Lithgow (credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (credit: Ruth Crafer). (Bottom, left to right): Nick Frost (credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (credit Mike Marsland). Image provided by Warner Bros.

Showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner, along with director and executive producer Mark Mylod, expressed their excitement about the cast, stating, "We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life."

Characters like Dumbledore, Hagrid, and Snape are not only central to the Harry Potter universe but have also become significant figures in pop culture. John Lithgow, who will play Dumbledore, shared his thoughts on the role during an interview with ScreenRant in February, saying, “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. 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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11 ImagesWhile the Harry Potter series does not yet have a confirmed release date, filming is expected to commence soon. Details about how the series will diverge from the original novels and the earlier film adaptations remain scarce. However, Warner Bros. has promised that the show will explore Harry's story "a little bit more in depth than you can in just a two-hour film." J.K. Rowling, the series' controversial author, is involved in the show's development.

For further updates on the Harry Potter series, including casting news for Harry, Hermione, and Ron, stay tuned to our latest reports.