John Lithgow is officially stepping into the wizarding world. The 79-year-old actor has been spotted for the first time on the set of HBO’s upcoming “Harry Potter” TV series, fully transformed into Albus Dumbledore.
John Lithgow Debuts as Dumbledore on Set
On Tuesday, October 7, Lithgow was photographed in character as the beloved headmaster of Hogwarts. In photos shared by Movie Magick on Instagram, he sported a long, wispy white beard that reached his waist, flowing robes, and small round spectacles resting on his nose — a look instantly familiar to fans of the original films. The actor was seen standing on a sandy beach in England, where production has been taking place for the past three months.
This is the first time Lithgow has been photographed on set since HBO began filming the highly anticipated series in July. The network previously celebrated the start of production by releasing the first official image of Dominic McLaughlin in costume as Harry Potter, as well as a shot of Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid — originally portrayed by the late Robbie Coltrane. Since then, fans have caught glimpses of additional shoot days across England, including scenes filmed at King’s Cross Station featuring the Weasley family boarding the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9 ¾.
Lithgow’s casting was announced earlier this year. At the time, he admitted to ScreenRant that the decision to accept the role wasn’t simple. “It was not an easy decision, because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life,” he said, referring to the time commitment involved. The series will adapt each of J.K. Rowling’s seven books into individual seasons. “But I’ve said yes.”
Lithgow Responds to Criticism and Joins Star-Studded Cast
Lithgow has also addressed criticism over an American actor portraying one of Britain’s most iconic fictional characters. “I know there were plenty of people appalled that an American should be hired to play the ultimate English wizard. But I will do my best,” he said on BBC’s “The One Show.”
“I’m not an Englishman, although I’ve played one on TV. I remind everyone that I did play Winston Churchill on ‘The Crown’ and did just fine,” he added with a laugh. He described playing Dumbledore as “an enormous thrill,” while admitting he feels “very intimidated” by the responsibility.
The ensemble cast includes Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Snape, Paul Whitehouse as Filch, Luke Thallon as Professor Quirrell, and Warwick Davis reprising his film role as Professor Flitwick. Outside Hogwarts, Katherine Parkinson will portray Molly Weasley, Bel Powley will play Petunia Dursley, Daniel Rigby will take on Vernon Dursley, Johnny Flynn will appear as Lucius Malfoy, and Lox Pratt will portray Draco Malfoy. Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout will play Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, respectively, opposite McLaughlin’s Harry.
Cillian Murphy Addresses Voldemort Rumors
Meanwhile, Cillian Murphy has set the record straight on persistent fan rumors that he would be taking over the role of Lord Voldemort. Appearing on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast, Murphy was asked if there was any truth to the speculation. “No,” he replied immediately. “I mean, no. Genuinely.”
“My kids show me on occasions, but like, no. I don’t know anything about that,” he said of the viral theories. Murphy also acknowledged the legacy of the role, saying, “It’s just really hard to follow anything Ralph Fiennes does. The man is an absolute acting legend, so good luck to whoever is gonna fill those shoes.”
The new “Harry Potter” series is set to premiere on HBO in 2027.
