‘Harry Potter’ TV series reportedly eyeing John Lithgow as Dumbledore

nme.com:

HBO is reportedly close to finding its Dumbledore for the upcoming TV adaptation of the Harry Potter franchise.According to a Deadline Hollywood report, American actor John Lithgow is being eyed for the role of Albus Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts and a mentor figure to the titular Harry Potter.HBO has yet to confirm Lithgow’s casting, and has denied Deadline‘s request for comment.Should John Lithgow land the role, he will be the first non-British actor to portray the iconic wizard following stints from Richard Harris and Michael Gambon in the mainline film franchise and Jude Law and Toby Regbo in the Fantastic Beasts prequel franchise.John Lithgow is best known for his roles in Dexter, The Crown, Conclave, Killers of the Flower Moon, 3rd Rock From The Sun and more, and has won six Emmy awards throughout his career.Lithgow’s alleged attachment to the role comes after it was reported in November that Mark Rylance was a favourite to play Dumbledore.

So far, no cast members – including the titular character – have been announced.More news regarding the adult cast is expected to arrive reasonably soon, before shooting begins at Warner Bros.

Studios Leavesden – where the original movies were also filmed – over the summer.Fans have discussed the possibility of Cillian Murphy playing Voldemort, with Ralph Fiennes backing the Oppenheimer star for the role, too, while it’s been reported that Paapa Essiedu is in talks to play Severus Snape.Back in December, it was revealed that the series – which is expected to run for a decade – has been pushed back until 2027.