HBO Builds Cast for Harry Potter Series Adaptation

HBO is steadily piecing together the ensemble for its upcoming series based on J.K. Rowling’s beloved Harry Potter books. Word has it that 63-year-old Janet McTeer is in the running to bring Professor Minerva McGonagall to life. Filming is slated to kick off in 2025. In the film franchise, the stern yet brilliant witch was portrayed by the late Maggie Smith, who passed away in September 2024 at the age of 89.

According to Deadline, negotiations with McTeer are already underway. Earlier in 2024, whispers suggested Rachel Weisz and Sharon Horgan were contenders for the role of Hogwarts’ Deputy Headmistress and Transfiguration expert. It seems, however, that McTeer has emerged as the frontrunner in the eyes of the creators.

McTeer’s credentials speak for themselves. She’s graced the screen in The Menu (2022) and the acclaimed series Ozark (2017–2022). Her performances in Tumbleweeds (1999) and Albert Nobbs (2011) earned her Oscar nods, while Into the Storm (2009) landed her an Emmy nomination. She clinched a Golden Globe for Tumbleweeds, cementing her reputation as a formidable talent.

Elsewhere in the casting puzzle, HBO is reportedly close to signing 34-year-old Paapa Essiedu—known for Murder on the Orient Express—to step into the shadowy robes of Potions Master Severus Snape. Rumors of his involvement first surfaced in 2024. Meanwhile, the wise and whimsical Albus Dumbledore is set to be portrayed by 79-year-old John Lithgow, a veteran of Dexter fame.

The project is in the capable hands of showrunner Francesca Gardiner (His Dark Materials, Succession) and director Mark Mylod (Game of Thrones, Succession), with J.K. Rowling serving as a producer. The team plans to adapt all seven books in the series. Production is expected to launch in 2025, with a premiere tentatively eyed for 2026 or 2027.