John Lithgow to Portray Dumbledore in HBO's Harry Potter Series

HBO is making significant strides with its new Harry Potter TV series, and it seems they've landed a key casting: John Lithgow is set to take on the iconic role of Professor Dumbledore.

Recent reports indicate that HBO has been searching for a new Dumbledore for quite some time, and it appears they've found their man. In an interview with ScreenRant, Lithgow confirmed his acceptance of the role, describing it as a defining moment for the "last chapter" of his life.

"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 shared. He added, "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."

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12 ImagesThis marks the first casting announcement for the upcoming Harry Potter TV series, though it's worth noting that HBO and Warner Bros. have yet to officially confirm Lithgow's involvement.

HBO's ambitious plan is to bring all of J.K. Rowling's beloved books to the small screen with a fresh cast portraying well-known characters such as Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, and the rest of the Hogwarts community. Rowling herself will serve as an executive producer, joined by Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts.

Despite Lithgow's verbal confirmation, the absence of a complete cast suggests that the series is still some time away from entering full production.

John Lithgow, a seasoned actor known for his roles in both film and television, is perhaps most recognized for his portrayal of Dick Solomon in the sitcom "3rd Rock from the Sun." He also garnered critical acclaim and an Emmy for his performance as Winston Churchill in the first season of Netflix's "The Crown."