"Harry Potter TV Series Announces 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 highly anticipated Harry Potter series. This announcement follows months of speculation about the casting choices for this fresh adaptation of Harry, Hermione, and Ron's adventures.

John Lithgow, known for his roles in Conclave and Dexter, will take on the role of Albus Dumbledore. His involvement was hinted at earlier when he confirmed to ScreenRant at the Sundance Film Festival that he would be playing the Hogwarts headmaster. "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. "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."

Joining Lithgow are Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz) as Rubeus Hagrid and Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You, Black Mirror) as Severus Snape. Completing the lineup are Janet McTeer (Me Before You, The Menu) as Minerva McGonagall, Luke Thallon (The Favourite, Present Laughter) as Quirinus Quirrell, and Paul Whitehouse (The Fast Show, 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 in a statement: "We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life."

The roles of Dumbledore, Hagrid, and Snape are not only central to the Harry Potter universe but are also significant figures in broader pop culture, presenting a challenge for these actors to live up to the legacy of these characters.

While the Harry Potter series does not yet have a confirmed release date, it is set to begin filming soon. 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." Controversial author J.K. Rowling is involved in the development of the series.

For those eager for more information, you can check out our latest update on the casting for Harry, Hermione, and Ron.

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