‘Harry Potter’: John Lithgow confirms casting as Dumbledore in HBO series

nme.com:

HBO‘s upcoming TV adaptation of Harry Potter.Earlier this month, it was reported that American actor John Lithgow was being eyed for the role of Albus Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts and a mentor figure to the titular Harry Potter in HBO’s forthcoming TV series.According to Lithgow – in a chat with Screen Rant – he has accepted the offer and will be starring in the series as the iconic wizard.

It will mark the first time in franchise history that the role has been played by a non-British or Irish actor.Speaking to Screen Rant about his casting, Lithgow said of his casting: “Well, it came as a total surprise to me.

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.”Lithgow continued: “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.”So far, Dumbledore has been portrayed by four actors throughout the eight mainline Harry Potter films and three Fantastic Beasts prequels.