Top 25 Harry Potter Characters: Books vs. Movies

In 2025, the Harry Potter franchise continues to captivate audiences worldwide. To honor this enduring legacy, we've meticulously curated a list of the 25 best characters from both the Harry Potter films and books. Our selection criteria encompass overall fan reactions, the character's impact on the franchise, their significance in pivotal moments, and their role within the broader Potter mythos. If your favorite character didn't make the cut, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!

Join us in the Great Hall as we celebrate these iconic characters:

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

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25. Dobby

Dobby, the house-elf, may have started as an annoying figure in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets," but his noble intentions and unwavering loyalty to Harry quickly won over fans. His poignant final words, "Such a beautiful place... to be with friends," in "Deathly Hallows Part 1," encapsulate his selfless nature. Despite his limited screen time compared to the books, Dobby's sacrifice remains one of the series' most touching moments.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

Before Voldemort, Gellert Grindelwald was the wizarding world's most feared villain. His brief but impactful appearance in the main series and his central role in the "Fantastic Beasts" films showcase his terror and complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore. Though the "Fantastic Beasts" series was cut short, Grindelwald's legacy remains significant.

23. Ginny Weasley

Ginny Weasley's journey from a shy, lovesick girl to a formidable member of Dumbledore's Army is inspiring. Her romance with Harry feels both unexpected and inevitable, grounding Harry's story with a touch of normalcy and love. In the books, Ginny's leadership and bravery shine brightly, making her an essential part of the series.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and vanity make him a memorable character, despite his lack of true heroics. His tenure as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts reveals his incompetence and cowardice, providing comic relief and a stark contrast to the genuine heroes of the series.

21. Albus Severus Potter

Named after two of the wizarding world's greatest figures, Albus Severus Potter grapples with the weight of his lineage. While his story is primarily explored in "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," his brief appearances in the films hint at the complexities and challenges he faces as Harry's son.

20. Molly Weasley

Molly Weasley embodies the perfect, magical mother. Her nurturing of Harry, treating him as one of her own, adds a layer of warmth to the series. Her fierce protection of her family, culminating in her iconic confrontation with Bellatrix Lestrange, showcases her strength and courage.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, the grizzled Auror, is a testament to the battle scars of the wizarding wars. His brief stint as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher and his subsequent role in the Order of the Phoenix highlight his dedication to fighting evil, even at great personal cost.

18. Minerva McGonagall

Minerva McGonagall, the strict yet caring Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts, balances discipline with warmth. Her role in the Order of the Phoenix and her unwavering support for Harry and the students of Hogwarts make her a beloved figure in the series.

17. Dolores Umbridge

Dolores Umbridge, the sadistic Ministry official, is perhaps the series' most hated character. Her oppressive rule at Hogwarts and cruel treatment of students, especially Harry, evoke a visceral reaction from fans. Her portrayal in the books is even more chilling than in the films.

16. Lucius Malfoy

Lucius Malfoy's arrogance and dark affiliations make him a formidable antagonist. His role in the Chamber of Secrets plot and his interactions with Harry showcase his sinister nature. His eventual fall from grace adds depth to his character and the narrative.

15. Newt Scamander

Newt Scamander, the hero of the "Fantastic Beasts" series, introduces fans to the magical creatures of the Harry Potter universe. His quirky personality and dedication to his work offer a fresh perspective on the wizarding world, despite the series' premature end.

14. Remus Lupin

Remus Lupin's role as a caring mentor to Harry, coupled with his personal struggle as a werewolf, makes him a complex and beloved character. His brief time at Hogwarts and his continued involvement with the Order of the Phoenix underscore his importance to the series.

13. Luna Lovegood

Luna Lovegood's unique perspective and unwavering loyalty to her friends make her a standout character. Her role in Dumbledore's Army and her friendship with Harry highlight her bravery and the importance of embracing one's individuality.

12. Rubeus Hagrid

Rubeus Hagrid's role as Harry's first friend and a constant source of support is invaluable. His love for magical creatures and his emotional connection with the trio add depth and warmth to the series, making him an integral part of Harry's journey.

11. Fred and George Weasley

Fred and George Weasley's humor and bravery bring joy and inspiration to the series. Their entrepreneurial spirit and their eventual role in the resistance against Voldemort showcase their courage and the importance of laughter in dark times.

10. Bellatrix Lestrange

Bellatrix Lestrange's pure malevolence and sadistic pleasure in causing pain make her a terrifying villain. Her actions, including the torture of Neville's parents and the murder of Sirius Black, cement her as one of the series' most impactful antagonists.

9. Draco Malfoy

Draco Malfoy's journey from a schoolyard bully to a conflicted young man forced into Voldemort's service adds depth to his character. His struggle with the task of killing Dumbledore reveals his inner turmoil and the complexities of his loyalty.

8. Sirius Black

Sirius Black's transformation from a feared fugitive to Harry's godfather and mentor is one of the series' most compelling arcs. His tragic death leaves a lasting impact on Harry, emphasizing the themes of family and sacrifice.

7. Voldemort

Voldemort, the embodiment of pure evil, is the series' central antagonist. His fear-inducing presence and relentless pursuit of power drive the narrative, making him a formidable and unforgettable villain.

6. Neville Longbottom

Neville Longbottom's evolution from a timid boy to a courageous leader is inspiring. His bravery during the Battle of Hogwarts and his personal connection to the fight against Voldemort make him a crucial part of the series' climax.

5. Albus Dumbledore

Albus Dumbledore's role as a wise mentor and powerful wizard is pivotal to the series. His complex character, marked by wisdom and flaws, adds depth to the narrative. John Lithgow's casting as Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter TV show promises to bring a new dimension to this iconic character.

4. Severus Snape

Severus Snape's enigmatic nature and ultimate sacrifice make him one of the series' most debated characters. His complex relationship with Harry and his unwavering loyalty to Dumbledore's cause showcase his depth and the nuances of heroism. Alan Rickman's portrayal of Snape is iconic, and Paapa Essiedu is rumored to be in line for the role in the HBO series.

3. Ron Weasley

Ron Weasley's loyalty, humor, and growth throughout the series make him an essential part of the trio. His bravery and personal struggles add realism and relatability to his character, making him a fan favorite.

2. Hermione Granger

Hermione Granger's intelligence, bravery, and moral compass make her a standout character. Her development from a rule-following student to a fearless fighter for justice and equality is inspiring, cementing her place as one of the series' most beloved figures.

1. Harry Potter

Harry Potter's journey from an orphaned boy to the hero who defeats Voldemort is the heart of the series. His relatable struggles, bravery, and the love he receives from his friends and surrogate family make him a timeless and beloved protagonist. With over 32,000 children auditioning for the role in the upcoming HBO series, the anticipation for the new Harry is palpable.

The 25 best Harry Potter characters

That concludes our selection of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our choices? Is there someone you believe we missed? Share your thoughts in the comments or create your own Harry Potter character tier list using our interactive tool above.

For more Harry Potter content, explore our guides to LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and other Harry Potter gift ideas. If you're looking for more magical reading, check out our list of the best books like Harry Potter.

Upcoming Harry Potter

In addition to the highly anticipated Harry Potter HBO TV show, which promises "big-picture storytelling" and a deeper exploration of the Wizarding World, Warner Bros. has confirmed that "Hogwarts Legacy 2" is a top priority following the success of the 2023 action RPG "Hogwarts Legacy."