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Reports are circulating today regarding the casting of Hogwarts Headmaster Albus Dumbledore for HBO's upcoming "Harry Potter" series. According to Deadline, veteran actor John Lithgow, an Emmy, Golden Globe, and Tony Award winner, is currently the top contender to portray the iconic wizard, marking what would be the fifth on-screen iteration of the character. Lithgow is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations with HBO.
Following the news, HBO released a statement acknowledging the significant interest in the series but reiterated that they would only confirm details once all agreements are finalized.
(Image Source: Warner Bros. Pictures)
Lithgow has twice been nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, for his roles in "The World According to Garp" and "Terms of Endearment." More recently, he is widely recognized for voicing Lord Farquaad in "Shrek," playing James Franco's father suffering from Alzheimer's in "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," and Matthew McConaughey's father-in-law in "Interstellar." Prior actors who have played Dumbledore at various ages include Richard Harris, Michael Gambon, Jude Law, and Toby Regbo.
The "Harry Potter" series is being helmed by Francesca Gardiner, known for her work on "His Dark Materials," who serves as showrunner. Mark Mylod, director of "The Menu" and "Succession," is also involved, directing multiple episodes and serving as an executive producer. The ambitious project plans to adapt one book per season, totaling seven seasons, with the first season slated to premiere in late 2026 or early 2027.
via： Deadline