According to a Deadline article HBO is close to securing two more key cast members for its highly anticipated Harry Potter television adaptation set to air in 2026. You can read more about this in previous mxdwn article. According to sources, Oscar and Emmy-nominated actress Janet McTeer (Ozark, The Menu) is in talks to portray Professor Minerva McGonagall, while Emmy nominee Paapa Essiedu (Gangs of London, The Lazarus Project) is finalizing his deal to play the complex and iconic character of Professor Severus Snape. You can read more Papa Essieddu in a previous mxdwn article.
Deadline says that the two actors are set to join John Lithgow (The World According to Garp, Love is Strange), who was previously announced to take on the role of Professor Albus Dumbledore. The series, led by showrunner Francesca Gardiner (His Dark Materials, The Rook) and executive producer Mark Mylod (Succession, Game of Thrones) , aims to stay true to J.K. Rowling’s beloved novels, with plans to span over a decade per Deadline.
Deadline also mentions that HBO has not confirmed the casting yet, stating, “We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals.” However, fans and audiences are filled with excitement about the potential cast lineup.
The casting of Essiedu aligns with Gardiner’s earlier remarks about staying true to the canonical ages of the characters, noting that Snape will be depicted as a 31-year-old, as intended in the books per Deadline. This approach offers a fresh perspective on the story and allows for deeper character development.
Deadline notes that McTeer, whose impressive resume includes roles in Into the Storm, Kaos, and The Old Man, is expected to bring warmth to the role of McGonagall. Similarly, Essiedu, known for his standout performances in I May Destroy You and The Lazarus Project, is anticipated to offer a excellent portrayal of Snape says Deadline.
The article continues by saying that the series will be filmed at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, the same location where the original films were shot. Deadline says the project is set for late 2026 or early 2027 premiere, and the Harry Potter series promises to deliver a more diverse and inclusive universe while staying faithful to the original source material. The casting for the iconic trio Harry, Ron, and Hermione remains uncertain. You can read all about the open casting call in previous mxdwn article.