Marvel actor Paul Bettany is rumored to be cast as Voldemort in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter reboot, putting the previously favored Cillian Murphy in a challenging position. Though no official confirmation has come from HBO, these rumors have stirred significant discussion among fans anticipating the highly awaited series, which is set to premiere in 2027.
Strong Rumors Link Paul Bettany to the Role of Voldemort in the New Harry Potter Series
The speculation around the identity of the actor playing Voldemort in HBO’s reboot and prequel series has intensified after a report from Redanian Intelligence suggested that this casting decision has been made but kept secret. A mysterious Reddit account, u/No_Foot4999, sparked further interest by allegedly leaking Bettany’s name before the account was deleted, leading fans to suspect interference from Warner Bros.
Paul Bettany, best recognized for his performances as Vision in Marvel’s Avengers and the critically acclaimed WandaVision, has a background that spans both heroes and villains. Though neither HBO nor Bettany himself has addressed these rumors, they have gained traction, positioning him as the probable next face of the Dark Lord in J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World adaptation.
Before Bettany’s Rise, Cillian Murphy Held Strong Support Backed by the Original Voldemort Actor
Prior to Bettany’s rumored involvement, Cillian Murphy was widely regarded as the front-runner to portray Voldemort, largely due to his intense and controlled acting style. Murphy’s presence as a fan favorite grew stronger when he received public endorsement from Ralph Fiennes, the original Voldemort actor, who praised Murphy’s abilities during an appearance on Bravo’s Watch What Happens Live.
Cillian is a fantastic actor… [after the interviewer suggested Murphy for the role of Voldemort] I actually think that’s a wonderful suggestion. I would be all in favor of Cillian. Yeah.
—Ralph Fiennes, Actor (Original Lord Voldemort)
Fiennes’ recommendation boosted Murphy’s chances in the eyes of the fanbase, who believed Murphy’s eerie, calm intensity suited the role perfectly. Despite this, Murphy has yet to comment on these casting rumors, and no official approaches from Warner Bros. or HBO have been confirmed. Still, conversations around his involvement continue to arise within Potterhead communities.
Examining the Suitability of Paul Bettany for Voldemort’s Role
As the rumors around Bettany’s casting grow, there is a mix of excitement and concern among fans. Bettany’s extensive experience includes complex characters beyond just heroic roles; he has portrayed antagonists such as Silas in The Da Vinci Code and Dryden Vos in Solo: A Star Wars Story, showcasing his skills in embodying sinister and formidable personalities.
His distinct voice and composed demeanor might allow him to bring a fresh, menacing interpretation to Voldemort. However, many fans and critics are cautious, comparing him to Ralph Fiennes’ portrayal, which set a high standard for darkness, malevolence, and terror within the character. The reboot’s promise of a more book-accurate and deeper narrative means the actor taking on Voldemort must meet elevated expectations.
If the rumors prove truthful and Bettany takes on this iconic role, he may bring a unique edge to the character, blending vulnerability and menace in a way that expands Voldemort’s on-screen presence. Still, the lack of official statements keeps fans anxious, uncertain about the identity behind the Dark Lord.
What This Casting Could Mean for the Harry Potter Reboot and Its Fans
The HBO adaptation is highly anticipated, aiming to delve deeper into the Harry Potter universe with a multi-season format, exploring beloved stories with more detail and book faithfulness than ever before. The choice of Voldemort’s actor is crucial, as this character remains a symbol of dark power and intense conflict in the narrative.
This casting saga highlights the tension between fan expectations and creative decisions made by producers. While Murphy had built a strong case supported by Ralph Fiennes and fan discussions, the possible selection of Paul Bettany marks a significant shift that could redefine Voldemort for a new generation.
Ultimately, the success of this reboot may depend on how well the cast, particularly the actor who embodies Voldemort, resonates with longtime fans and newcomers alike. Until HBO offers official word, speculation will likely continue, fueling passionate debates within the Wizarding World community.
The original Harry Potter films, where Ralph Fiennes first captivated audiences as Voldemort, are currently streaming on HBO Max in the US, adding a nostalgic lens through which fans can compare and anticipate the upcoming series.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Cillian Murphy a billionaire?
A. As of 2025, Cillian Murphy’s net worth is about $20 million. Most of his money comes from being a highly respected actor. He has appeared in many popular movies and TV shows and has also participated in multiple theater productions.
