HBO is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations with John Lithgow, known for his role as Lord Farquaad in Shrek, to portray the iconic Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming Harry Potter reboot series. According to Variety, Lithgow is nearing a deal to take on the starring role, although HBO has yet to confirm this casting news. This development comes as a surprise, especially since Variety previously reported in November that Mark Rylance was the top choice for the role of Dumbledore.
A spokesperson from HBO commented on the swirling rumors, stating, "We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals."
John Lithgow's extensive career includes notable performances in films such as The World According to Garp, Terms of Endearment, and Footloose, as well as television roles in Dexter and The Crown, among others.
John Lithgow. Photo by Christopher Polk/Variety via Getty Images.
Despite various reports, the casting process for the Harry Potter reboot remains largely under wraps. HBO is also on the hunt for actors to fill the roles of Harry, Hermione, and Ron, and has reportedly cast Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape. The series aims to maintain a focus on British talent, a decision influenced by the involvement of the original author, J.K. Rowling, who is "fairly involved" in the casting process.
Announced in April 2023, the Harry Potter series is set to be a "faithful adaptation" of the beloved novels, promising a more "in-depth" exploration of the story than what was possible in the two-hour film format. The project will be directed and written by Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod, both known for their work on Succession, with Mylod also having contributed to Game of Thrones.
