The highly anticipated Harry Potter TV series is gaining momentum with several new casting announcements for the upcoming HBO adaptation. Bertie Carvel, known for his role in The Crown as Tony Blair, will portray Cornelius Fudge, the Minister of Magic. Joining him are Bel Powley and Daniel Rigby, who will take on the roles of Petunia and Vernon Dursley, Harry’s aunt and uncle.
Deadline and Variety confirmed the inclusion of these actors in a cast that already features notable talent such as Paapa Essiedu as Professor Snape, John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Nick Frost as Hagrid, and Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall. Additionally, the central trio of young wizards has been cast with Dominic McLaughlin, Alastair Stout, and Arabella Stanton stepping in as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger, respectively.
Carvel’s role as Cornelius Fudge is expected to be recurring, similar to the character’s appearances in the original film franchise, where he was portrayed by Robert Hardy. Meanwhile, the characters of Petunia and Vernon Dursley were previously brought to life by Fiona Shaw and the late Richard Griffiths, with Harry Melling playing their son Dudley, a role that has yet to be recast.
Notably, HBO has refrained from officially confirming the cast details, stating that as production progresses, they will share finalized information. However, given the accuracy of previous casting reports by entertainment trades, fans are optimistic about these developments.
The series is set to adapt one book per season over a planned seven-season arc, with the hope of a 2026 premiere date. Other cast members confirmed include Katherine Parkinson as Molly Weasley, Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy, and Johnny Flynn as Lucius Malfoy, among others.
As the Harry Potter franchise continues to expand with new interpretations, fans hold onto the excitement of revisiting the beloved story through this fresh series, enriching the legacy of the wizarding world for a new generation.