As HBO moves forward with its highly anticipated Harry Potter television reboot set to begin filming in Leavesden in 2025, the identity of the actor playing Lord Voldemort remains a closely guarded secret. While Nicholas Hoult is widely rumored to assume the role, many fans and industry voices argue that Cillian Murphy is the ideal choice to embody the dark complexity of the Dark Lord.
Murphy’s unique ability to portray chilling characters with profound psychological depth makes him a compelling candidate for Voldemort. Unlike Hoult, whose strengths lean toward more charming or energetic characters, Murphy’s intense screen presence and chilling expressiveness align perfectly with the menacing aura required for He Who Must Not Be Named.
The Depth and Darkness Cillian Murphy Brings to the Role
Cillian Murphy’s extensive body of work demonstrates his mastery of playing characters caught between vulnerability and menace. From his portrayal of the icy, calculating Thomas Shelby in “Peaky Blinders” to the emotionally fraught physicist in “Oppenheimer,” Murphy excels at revealing a fractured soul beneath a composed surface. His ability to command emotion silently, through subtle expressions and an unsettling gaze, positions him to capture Voldemort’s terrifying and fractured identity.
In contrast, Nicholas Hoult’s performances in projects like “The Great” and “Mad Max: Fury Road” highlight a more vibrant and approachable energy, which may not translate into the internal decay and serpentine complexity that Voldemort demands. Voldemort’s character is not one driven by charm but by a deep, corrosive madness and ancestral trauma—qualities Murphy’s filmography suggests he can embody fully.
Endorsements from Industry Veterans Strengthen Murphy’s Case
Beyond fan speculation, endorsements from key figures linked to the Harry Potter franchise support Murphy’s suitability. Ralph Fiennes, the original Voldemort, praised Murphy’s acting, expressing strong approval for the idea of him taking over the role. He remarked,
“Cillian is a fantastic actor. That’s a wonderful suggestion. I would be all in favor of Cillian. Yeah.”
—Ralph Fiennes, Actor
Chris Columbus, who directed the first film adaptations of the series, also expressed enthusiasm about Murphy portraying Voldemort in the new series, describing the prospect as “amazing” without hesitation. Such endorsements underscore the belief that Murphy has the gravitas and skill to carry the darkness of the role.
With Francesca Gardiner scripting the reboot and Mark Mylod directing—both known for crafting richly drawn characters—the series aims to explore Voldemort’s origins and psychological torment in depth. Murphy’s proven ability to portray morally ambiguous, haunted figures fits perfectly with this vision.
Warner Bros.’ Ambiguous Comments Hint at Murphy’s Potential Involvement
Warner Bros. CEO Channing Dungey’s recent refusal to confirm or deny Murphy’s casting as Voldemort has fueled speculation about his involvement. When asked by Deadline, Dungey offered a firm “no comment” in response to whether Murphy would take the role, a silence that industry insiders read as suggestive.
We are still weighing a couple of different options.
—Channing Dungey, Warner Bros. CEO
This guarded response hints at a deliberate strategy to keep the reveal dramatic and maintain suspense around the Dark Lord’s casting. Given Murphy’s reputation as one of Hollywood’s most enigmatic and serious actors, his participation would bring significant weight and authenticity to the character, likely raising expectations and media attention around the reboot.
Why Cillian Murphy Belongs at the Center of the Series, Not in a Supporting Role
Earlier rumors proposed casting Murphy as Professor Quirrell, a role closely connected to Voldemort but ultimately secondary. However, many argue that assigning Murphy this part would underutilize his talents. Quirrell serves as a vessel for Voldemort‘s malevolence, but the reboot’s serialized format will allow extensive exploration of Voldemort’s troubled origins, from his childhood at Wool’s Orphanage to his obsessive quest for Horcruxes and descent into darkness.
This narrative demands an actor capable of sustaining the role of a deeply complex villain throughout multiple seasons. Murphy’s presence is better suited for the main antagonist rather than a transient supporting role, as his acting style matches the philosophical and psychological depth the story intends to explore.
While Hoult might deliver an adequate performance, many viewers and critics believe that Murphy’s track record of embodying complex, haunted characters makes him the natural choice to represent Voldemort’s ancient evil and fractured humanity. Murphy’s potential casting promises a portrayal that goes beyond villainy to reveal the intricate layers of a tragic and terrifying figure.
Ultimately, the decision to choose either Nicholas Hoult or Cillian Murphy for Voldemort will shape the tone and impact of HBO’s Harry Potter series. Whether the studio opts to save Murphy for a dramatic reveal or continues with the rumored casting of Hoult remains to be seen. Either way, the role requires an actor capable of commanding fear, embodying madness, and reflecting the fractured soul at the heart of Voldemort’s story.
Harry Potter films continue to be available for streaming on Max, setting the stage for anticipation around the new series and its portrayal of one of literature’s most iconic villains.
