As HBO expands the cast of its upcoming Harry Potter series, many fans have been curious about who will portray the dark wizard Voldemort, originally played by Ralph Fiennes in the film adaptations. Amid this anticipation, rumors surfaced suggesting that Cillian Murphy, known for his role in Oppenheimer, would take on the villainous role. However, Murphy has directly denied these claims, dispelling any speculation surrounding his involvement.
Speaking on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Murphy addressed the casting rumors by stating that he had no knowledge of such plans. He also expressed respect for the challenge of taking on a role previously defined by a respected actor.
No, my kids show me it occasionally, but no, I don’t know anything about that,
Murphy said.
I mean, also, it’s just really hard to follow anything Ralph Fiennes does. The man is an absolute acting legend. So, good luck to whoever is going to fill those shoes.
The New Cast and Creative Team Behind HBO’s Harry Potter
The forthcoming Harry Potter series will introduce fresh faces alongside established actors. Dominic McLaughlin will star as Harry Potter, with Alastair Stout and Arabella Stanton portraying Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, respectively. The production features notable talents such as John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, and Paapa Essiedu reprising Severus Snape. Other key roles include Nick Frost playing Rubeus Hagrid, Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy, and Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom, supported by actors depicting members of the Weasley and Dursley families.
Leading the adaptation is Francesca Gardiner, known for her work on Killing Eve and Succession, serving as showrunner and executive producer. Direction is helmed by Mark Mylod, who also acts as an executive producer alongside J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts, and longtime Harry Potter producer David Heyman. The series is a collaborative effort between HBO, Brontë Film and TV, and Warner Bros. Television.
Production Status and Expectations for the Series
Filming for the series is currently in progress, with a highly anticipated premiere planned for 2027. The show aims to remain faithful to the original Harry Potter books, striving to bring the beloved story to life for a new generation of viewers while honoring the legacy of the source material and its iconic characters.
