Here's everything to know about HBO's 'Harry Potter' series, which may have recently cast its new Dumbledore After seven books, eight movies, one play and a whole spin-off series, Harry Potter is debuting on the small screen for the first time.

John Lithgow is officially HBO’s new Dumbledore. That means a fresh take on the iconic role! Today on Collider, we’re breaking down how every actor prepared to play the legendary headmaster.

John Lithgow arrives at the 31st annual Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025, at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. Earlier this week, Lithgow was announced to take on the role of Professor Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming “Harry Potter” television series.

Lithgow's casting breaks tradition of British actors in Harry Potter, sparking debate. HBO's American casting decision opens more opportunities for diverse talent in series. Auditions for lead trio ongoing, with Paapa Essiedu as Snape and Cillian Murphy as Voldemort rumored.

Those three little words from John Lithgow confirming his intention to play Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming Harry Potter TV show made me lose all respect for him. The 79-year-old actor – known for his roles in 3rd Rock From the Sun,

When asked about the offer to play Dumbledore, Lithgow described the decision as "not easy," recognizing it could define the final phase of his illustrious career.

HBO’s Harry Potter TV series has the chance to fix mistakes made by the film franchise, yet one big oversight won’t be redone for another ten years.