Wed Feb 12 21:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Lithgow in Final Talks to Play Dumbledore in HBO’s “Harry Potter” Series

**Los Angeles, CA** – Veteran actor John Lithgow is reportedly in final negotiations to portray the iconic Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” books. Variety confirmed the news, citing unnamed sources. While HBO remained tight-lipped, stating only that pre-production is underway and casting details will be announced as deals are finalized, the news has sent ripples through the fandom.

Lithgow, a celebrated actor with a career spanning decades and encompassing roles in films like “The World According to Garp” and “Terms of Endearment,” and television series such as “3rd Rock from the Sun” and “The Crown,” would bring considerable weight to the role previously held by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon. Dumbledore, the wise and enigmatic headmaster of Hogwarts, is a central figure in the “Harry Potter” saga.

Other potential casting news includes Paapa Essiedu as a frontrunner for the role of Severus Snape. HBO plans to cast new actors for the central trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, launching an open casting call last fall for child actors aged 9-11.

HBO has described the series as a faithful adaptation aiming to introduce a new generation to the beloved story, while acknowledging the existing films remain a core part of the franchise. The planned decade-long series promises to be a major undertaking for the network.

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