HBO is reportedly in advanced negotiations with acclaimed actor John Lithgow, known for his role as Lord Farquaad in Shrek, to portray the iconic Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in its upcoming Harry Potter series.
While Variety suggests Lithgow is nearing a deal, HBO remains tight-lipped, refusing to confirm the casting. This follows November reports naming Mark Rylance as the frontrunner for the Dumbledore role.
"We understand the considerable speculation surrounding this high-profile project," an HBO spokesperson stated. "We'll only confirm casting details once contracts are finalized."
Lithgow's extensive credits include The World According to Garp, Terms of Endearment, Footloose, Dexter, and The Crown.
The series will prioritize British talent, mirroring the films. This is perhaps unsurprising given J.K. Rowling's reported "significant involvement" in the casting process.
Announced in April 2023, the Harry Potter series aims to be a faithful adaptation of the books, promising a more nuanced and detailed narrative than the films allowed. Succession producers Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod (also a Game of Thrones veteran) are attached to direct and write.
