American actor John Lithgow revealed in an interview with ScreenRant that he will play the role of Albus Dumbledore in HBO's new Harry Potter series.
At the same time, HBO, in a comment to the media, states that it is still confirming all the details and an official announcement will appear when the deal is finalized. Lithgow himself said during an interview that he agreed to star in the new series.
"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. 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," the actor said.
Lithgow has not shared any details about the upcoming series yet. Given HBO's comments, the actor is likely not allowed to divulge any information, including casting details. According to the schedule, the Harry Potter series is set to begin filming in the summer of 2025 in the UK, with the first season likely to premiere in late 2026 or early 2027.
It is also known that Francesca Gardiner will be the showrunner. She previously worked on such series as "The Dark Materials" and helped produce "Succession".