In 2025, the Harry Potter franchise continues to captivate audiences worldwide, celebrating its enduring legacy through the beloved film and book series. We've carefully curated a list of the 25 best Harry Potter characters, chosen based on fan reactions, their impact on the franchise, their relevance to key moments, and their significance in the Potter mythos. If you're eager to share your thoughts or see who didn't make the cut, feel free to chime in with your comments. Let's gather in the Great Hall for a special assembly to explore these iconic characters from the Harry Potter universe.
Please note: This list focuses solely on characters from the Harry Potter movies and books and will not include any from Hogwarts Legacy or be influenced by the upcoming Harry Potter TV series.
The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters
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25. Dobby
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Dobby, the endearing house-elf, tugs at our heartstrings with his memorable farewell in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1," where he utters, "Such a beautiful place... to be with friends." Initially appearing in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets," Dobby's quirky and self-harming habits might have seemed off-putting, but his heart was always in the right place. His noble intentions and unwavering loyalty to Harry, especially after being granted his freedom, shine brightly in both the books and films. Dobby's ultimate sacrifice to save Harry and his friends from Bellatrix Lestrange's wrath is one of the series' most poignant moments, showcasing his selfless devotion.
24. Gellert Grindelwald
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Once the most feared villain in the wizarding world, Gellert Grindelwald's dark legacy precedes him. Although his presence in the main Harry Potter series is brief, his impact is significant, as he even managed to outwit Voldemort. The "Fantastic Beasts" series delves deeper into Grindelwald's reign of terror and his complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore. His ability to conceal his true nature until the dramatic reveal adds depth to his character, although the premature end of the "Fantastic Beasts" series left his story unfinished.
23. Ginny Weasley
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Ginny Weasley's journey from a shy, lovesick girl in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" to a fierce leader of Dumbledore's Army is inspiring. Her romance with Harry, which blossoms naturally within the Weasley family's warmth, adds a layer of depth to her character. While the films may not fully capture her growth, in the books, Ginny emerges as a strong, determined fighter against evil, embodying the spirit of a true Gryffindor and capturing our hearts as the quintessential "girl who got her guy."
22. Gilderoy Lockhart
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Gilderoy Lockhart charms his way into society with his charisma and memory charms, claiming to be one of the most accomplished wizards. His tenure as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts reveals his true colors as a vain and incompetent fraud. His exaggerated tales unravel when confronted by Harry and his friends, showcasing his cowardice and providing a humorous yet revealing look at the dangers of false bravado.
21. Albus Severus Potter
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Albus Severus Potter, named after two of the most significant wizards in history, struggles with the weight of his family's legacy. As Harry and Ginny's son, he grapples with fame, anonymity, and the choice between Gryffindor and Slytherin. While the films only hint at his story, "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" provides a deeper look into his adventures, making us hopeful for his eventual cinematic portrayal.
20. Molly Weasley
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Molly Weasley embodies the perfect, loving mother figure, enhanced by her magical abilities. Her nurturing of Harry, treating him as one of her own, offers him the love and support he lacked. Beyond her maternal warmth, Molly's courage shines through her involvement with the Order of the Phoenix, culminating in her fierce protection of her family against Bellatrix Lestrange.
19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody
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Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, a grizzled veteran Auror, is defined by his battle scars and magical eye. Despite his paranoia and eccentricity, Moody's commitment to fighting evil is unwavering. His brief stint as a Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts is overshadowed by his impersonation by Barty Crouch Jr., but his loyalty to the Order of the Phoenix and Harry remains steadfast until his heroic death.
18. Minerva McGonagall
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Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet caring head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress, strikes a balance between discipline and kindness. Her dedication to Hogwarts and the Order of the Phoenix is unwavering, and her role in Harry's life is pivotal, from placing him with the Dursleys to nurturing him at school.
17. Dolores Umbridge
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Dolores Umbridge is a character that fans love to hate. Her oppressive rule over Hogwarts during "Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix" leaves a lasting impact. Her sadistic punishments and insufferable demeanor make her a uniquely detestable villain, even compared to Voldemort. Imelda Staunton's portrayal captures her essence perfectly, making Umbridge a standout antagonist.
16. Lucius Malfoy
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Lucius Malfoy, the epitome of wealth and power in the wizarding world, is a cunning supporter of Voldemort. His actions, such as slipping Tom Riddle's diary into Ginny's cauldron, drive key plot points. Jason Isaacs' portrayal adds depth to his arrogance and eventual fall from grace, making Lucius a fascinating character to follow.
15. Newt Scamander
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Newt Scamander brings a unique perspective to the wizarding world with his nerdy charm and fascination with magical creatures. Although the "Fantastic Beasts" series ended prematurely, Newt's character offers a fresh take on wizardry, distinct from the Harry Potter saga.
14. Remus Lupin
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Remus Lupin, a compassionate and skilled Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, provides Harry with invaluable insights into his parents' lives. His struggle with being a werewolf adds a layer of complexity to his character, and his dedication to the Order of the Phoenix and his eventual relationship with Tonks enrich his narrative.
13. Luna Lovegood
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Luna Lovegood's quirky and unapologetic nature makes her an instant fan favorite. Her unique perspective and unwavering support for Harry and Dumbledore's Army highlight her importance to the series, making her a beloved member of the Hogwarts community.
12. Rubeus Hagrid
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Rubeus Hagrid's warm and loyal friendship is a cornerstone of Harry's journey. As a confidant and protector, Hagrid's heartfelt moments with Harry, Ron, and Hermione underscore his role as a beloved surrogate family member and a key figure in their growth.
11. Fred and George Weasley
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Fred and George Weasley bring humor and bravery to the series. Their entrepreneurial spirit and pranks lighten the mood, while their courage in standing against Umbridge and fighting in the Battle of Hogwarts showcase their heroic side. Fred's ultimate sacrifice adds a poignant note to their legacy.
10. Bellatrix Lestrange
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Bellatrix Lestrange's sheer enjoyment of evil sets her apart as a chilling antagonist. Her sadistic actions, from torturing Neville's parents to murdering Sirius Black and Dobby, cement her as one of the most feared villains in the series. Her eventual demise feels justified given her long list of atrocities.
9. Draco Malfoy
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Draco Malfoy, Harry's nemesis, embodies privilege and prejudice. His task to kill Dumbledore reveals his internal struggle, showcasing a complexity beyond mere antagonism. His journey from a school bully to a conflicted young man adds depth to his character.
8. Sirius Black
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Sirius Black's transformation from a feared fugitive to Harry's beloved godfather is a testament to his resilience and loyalty. His relationship with Harry offers a glimpse of the family Harry longs for, making his untimely death a significant loss.
7. Voldemort
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Lord Voldemort, born Tom Marvolo Riddle, is the epitome of evil. His fear-inducing presence and relentless pursuit of power make him a formidable adversary. His inability to comprehend love or friendship only adds to his chilling persona, making him a truly iconic villain.
6. Neville Longbottom
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Neville Longbottom's transformation from a shy, unsure student to a brave hero is inspiring. His courage in facing Bellatrix Lestrange and his pivotal role in the Battle of Hogwarts highlight his growth and determination, making him a symbol of resilience.
5. Albus Dumbledore
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Albus Dumbledore, the wise and eccentric headmaster of Hogwarts, is a mentor figure akin to Gandalf or Yoda. His guidance and protection of Harry, coupled with his powerful magic, make him an indispensable part of the series. His death leaves a void, but his legacy endures. John Lithgow's casting as Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO series promises to bring new life to this iconic character.
4. Severus Snape
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Severus Snape's complex character leaves a lasting impression. His harsh treatment of Harry contrasts with his ultimate loyalty to Dumbledore and the cause against Voldemort. Alan Rickman's portrayal captures Snape's enigmatic nature, and Paapa Essiedu's potential casting in the HBO series adds anticipation to his future depiction.
3. Ron Weasley
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Ron Weasley, Harry's loyal sidekick, brings humor and heart to the trio. His journey from a comic relief character to a brave and steadfast friend showcases his growth. His struggles with jealousy and fear only humanize him, making his return to Harry and Hermione in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1" a powerful moment.
2. Hermione Granger
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Hermione Granger, the brightest witch of her age, is more than just a token character. Her intelligence and moral compass guide the trio through their adventures. Her development from a rule-abiding student to a fearless ally willing to break the law for the greater good is compelling, making her an essential part of the story.
1. Harry Potter
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Harry Potter, the series' protagonist, embodies the ultimate underdog story. His journey from an orphaned boy to a hero facing the dark forces of Voldemort captures the essence of good versus evil. His imperfections and the support of his chosen family make him relatable and beloved. As we await the HBO series, the casting of a new Harry among over 32,000 hopefuls adds excitement to his enduring legacy.
The 25 best Harry Potter characters
And that's our pick of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our picks? Or is your favorite missing? Let us know in the comments or create your own Harry Potter character tier list using our handy tool above.
Looking for more Harry Potter? Take a look at our guides to LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and more Harry Potter gift ideas. We've also gathered a list of the best books like Harry Potter if you're looking to dive further into the genre.
Upcoming Harry Potter
In addition to the Harry Potter HBO TV show, which will boast "big-picture storytelling" and "explore the Wizarding World more in depth than you can in a two-hour film," Warner Bros. has confirmed Hogwarts Legacy 2 is one of its "biggest priorities" following the success of 2023's action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.
