Tom Felton returns as Draco Malfoy on Broadway, stepping onto the stage for the first time in his career to reprise his iconic role from the Harry Potter films. Beginning in November, Felton will portray an older Draco in
“Harry Potter and The Cursed Child”
for a 19-week Broadway run, marking a significant moment for both the actor and fans of the franchise.
Felton Embraces the Role of Draco Malfoy in a New Light
The return of Tom Felton to the world of Harry Potter brings a wave of nostalgia as he transitions from cinematic villain to complex stage character. Felton, now 37, revealed his excitement and awe at revisiting the Slytherin role on Broadway, sharing with Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin during a June 5 television appearance,
“It’s very much a pinch-me situation,”
and,
“I keep thinking I’m dreaming. I let go of that character 16 years ago, and now I get to step back into his shoes, as a father this time, in a new story.”
—Tom Felton, Actor
This Broadway production is set nearly two decades after the culmination of the original wizarding saga, with Felton interpreting Draco as an adult navigating life and parenthood.
“Harry Potter and The Cursed Child”
centers on the friendship between Scorpius Malfoy, Draco’s son, and Albus Severus Potter, the son of Harry and Ginny Potter, after both are sorted into Slytherin House.
Exploring Fresh Territory for Draco
Felton reflects on how returning to Draco offers a unique creative challenge, distancing himself from his childhood depiction.
“The play is such an independent story from the Potter films that I grew up with,”
he explained.
“We start 19 years later … now we’re no longer children. We actually are the parents. So as much as it is reprising an old role for me, it’s very much treading into new, unfamiliar territory.”
—Tom Felton, Actor
He acknowledged,
“I know him quite well as a kid. I don’t know him that well as an adult. So that’s the that’s the exciting challenge ahead for me.”
—Tom Felton, Actor
This fresh take on Draco not only reinvigorates Felton’s personal connection to the character, but also invites audiences to engage with beloved figures in a distinctly new setting—one that explores themes of legacy, parenting, and transformation after the era-defining Battle of Hogwarts.
A Landmark Broadway Debut
Felton’s casting is a milestone, marking the first appearance of an original film cast member on the Broadway stage production. This also serves as Felton’s own Broadway debut, creating an emotionally intense moment for the actor and fans alike.
“It’s very, very easy to get emotional,”
Felton shared.
“When they put my blond wig on for the theater production, I just immediately cried. It was just sort of like a blast from the past. It was something that I never thought I’d see again.”
—Tom Felton, Actor
A New Era for Harry Potter Adaptations
Felton’s return comes as enthusiasm for the magical world is reignited by the announcement of the upcoming HBO Max television series. Casting news continues to capture the global imagination, building anticipation for the next generation of adaptations.
Three newcomers, Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, will step into the roles once made famous by Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint. Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod, executive producers, expressed their admiration for the cast,
“The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen,”
adding,
“We would like to thank all the tens of thousands of children who auditioned. It’s been a real pleasure to discover the plethora of young talent out there.”
—Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod, Executive Producers
Introducing the New Faces of Iconic Characters
The creative team for the HBO Max adaptation is drawing from across the acting world, assembling an acclaimed and diverse group for key Hogwarts figures:
Paapa Essiedu, an Emmy-nominated British actor known for “I May Destroy You,” is in talks to appear as Severus Snape, a role immortalized on screen by Alan Rickman. John Lithgow, celebrated for his extensive list of accolades—including six Emmy Awards and two Tony Awards—will step into the shoes of Hogwarts’ venerable headmaster Albus Dumbledore, following the legacy of Richard Harris and Michael Gambon. Lithgow reflected on his decision to join, stating,
“It was not an easy decision,”
and,
“because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid. But I’m very excited… I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”
—John Lithgow, Actor
Janet McTeer, a highly regarded British actress with credits in “Ozark” and “Jessica Jones,” is reportedly cast as Professor Minerva McGonagall, honoring the role Dame Maggie Smith made famous. Nick Frost, a comedian known for “Shaun of the Dead” and “Hot Fuzz,” is near a deal to portray the beloved half-giant, Rubeus Hagrid, a part held dear by Robbie Coltrane. Paul Whitehouse, renowned for his comedy in the UK and a winner of five BAFTAs, has been announced as the new Argus Filch, taking over from David Bradley, and has a special connection to the franchise as he also played Sir Cadogan in
“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.”
Rising Talents Step into the Wizarding World
The cast extends to newer faces such as Luke Thallon, an accomplished theatre performer, who will take on the character of Quirinus Quirrell, following Ian Hart’s film portrayal. These choices underline a commitment to blending veteran experience with emerging British talent, ensuring the franchise’s legacy continues with fresh energy and diverse interpretations.
What Lies Ahead for the Magic on Stage and Screen
Tom Felton’s stage debut as Draco Malfoy not only celebrates a beloved character’s evolution but also signals a vibrant rejuvenation for the Harry Potter fandom, connecting generations of fans worldwide. As
“Harry Potter and The Cursed Child”
heads to Broadway, and new faces prepare to step into roles at HBO, the enduring appeal of J.K. Rowling’s wizarding universe remains as strong as ever, promising emotional reunions, bold new interpretations, and continued opportunities for fans to experience the magic anew.
