Warner Bros. and HBO have officially unveiled the first six actors who will portray iconic Hogwarts professors in the highly anticipated Harry Potter television series. The announcement comes after months of speculation and fan theories about the new adaptation of Harry, Hermione, and Ron's magical journey.

John Lithgow, known for his roles in Conclave and Dexter, will take on the role of Albus Dumbledore, a casting he had previously hinted at. Joining him are Nick Frost, famous from Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, as Rubeus Hagrid, and Paapa Essiedu, acclaimed for I May Destroy You and Black Mirror, as Severus Snape. The ensemble is completed by Janet McTeer (Me Before You, The Menu) as Minerva McGonagall, Luke Thallon (The Favourite, Present Laughter) as Quirinus Quirrell, and Paul Whitehouse (The Fast Show, Alice Through the Looking Glass) as Argus Filch.

(Top, left to right): John Lithgow (credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (credit: Ruth Crafer). (Bottom, left to right): Nick Frost (credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (credit Mike Marsland). Image provided by Warner Bros.

Showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner, along with director and executive producer Mark Mylod, expressed their excitement about the cast: “We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life.”

Characters like Dumbledore, Hagrid, and Snape are not only central to the Harry Potter universe but have also become iconic figures in pop culture. John Lithgow, in particular, shared his thoughts on the role's significance earlier this year. “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,” he told ScreenRant in February. “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.”

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While the Harry Potter series does not yet have a confirmed release date, production is expected to start soon. Details on how the series will diverge from J.K. Rowling's original novels and the earlier film adaptations remain scarce. However, Warner Bros. has assured fans that the show will explore Harry's story "a little bit more in depth than you can in just a two-hour film." J.K. Rowling is also involved in the development of the series.

For more updates on the Harry Potter series, including casting news for Harry, Hermione, and Ron, stay tuned to our latest coverage.