John Lithgow Opens Up About Playing Dumbledore in HBO’s HARRY POTTER Series
John Lithgow has finally spoken about his casting as Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series, revealing that the decision to take on the role wasn’t an easy one.
While promoting his latest film, The Rule of Jenny Penn, the veteran actor talked about the weight of stepping into one of the most beloved characters in modern literature.
Lithgow admitted in an interview with Screen Rant: “Well, it came as a total surprise to me. 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.
“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.”
The news of Lithgow’s casting broke earlier this month, making him the first officially confirmed actor in the highly anticipated series. HBO is reportedly considering Brett Goldstein and Paapa Essiedu for other key roles, while other rumors suggest Cillian Murphy may be in talks to play Professor Quirrell.
Lithgow’s hesitancy to makes sense. Taking on Dumbledore means committing to years of work, with one of the most crucial roles in the Harry Potter story. It’s a massive undertaking that will likely limit his availability for other projects. By the time the series wraps, Lithgow may be ready to retire from acting altogether.
Despite the challenge, the opportunity to leave his mark on the Harry Potter legacy was obviously too enticing for him to pass up.
HBO says the series will be a “faithful adaptation” of J.K. Rowling’s books, designed as a decade-long endeavor to bring the seven novels to life with more depth than the films. The show is currently slated for a 2026 release, with production expected to begin this summer.
Now, all eyes are on HBO as fans wait to see who will join Lithgow at Hogwarts. One thing’s for sure—this series is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about projects in years.