The upcoming Harry Potter HBO series is making headlines again, this time for casting its beloved half-giant, Rubeus Hagrid.
British actor and comedian Nick Frost, 52, is reportedly finalizing his deal to take on the iconic role, which was originally played by the late Robbie Coltrane.
Casting News Sparks Fan Excitement
Fans first began speculating about Frost’s involvement last week when he posted a cryptic Instagram caption: “What a bloody lovely day! It’s happening, it’s actually happening. Stay cool.”
The post, paired with a close-up selfie, lacked context, but eagle-eyed followers noticed that he had started following actors already confirmed for the series, including John Lithgow and Paapa Essiedu.
While HBO has yet to make an official announcement, they acknowledged the ongoing buzz.
“We appreciate that such a high-profile series will generate a lot of speculation.
As we move through pre-production, we will only confirm details once deals are finalized,” the studio shared in a statement.
John Lithgow Joins as Dumbledore
Last month, it was revealed that John Lithgow had been cast as Professor Dumbledore.
The 79-year-old actor, best known for his work in The Crown and 3rd Rock from the Sun, admitted he was surprised by the opportunity.
“I was at the Sundance Film Festival when I got the call,” Lithgow told Screen Rant.
“It wasn’t an easy decision because this role is going to define me for the final chapter of my career.
But I’m excited to be part of such a beloved universe.”
Dumbledore has been played by legendary actors Richard Harris and Michael Gambon in past films, making Lithgow’s portrayal highly anticipated.
More Big Names in Talks
In addition to Frost and Lithgow, Deadline reported that Emmy-nominated actress Janet McTeer is in discussions to step into the role of Professor Minerva McGonagall, originally portrayed by Dame Maggie Smith.
McTeer, 63, is known for her work in Tumbleweeds and Ozark.
Paapa Essiedu, 34, is also rumored to be in talks for the role of Professor Severus Snape, a character made famous by the late Alan Rickman.
Meanwhile, speculation is running wild that Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy may take on the role of the infamous Lord Voldemort.
A Bold New Direction for the Franchise
With all seven Harry Potter books being adapted over the next decade, HBO is sparing no expense, reportedly investing over $200 million per season.
Filming is set to begin in the UK this summer, with a premiere slated for 2026.
This fresh adaptation is being closely overseen by J.K. Rowling, who remains deeply involved as an executive producer.
A source told MailOnline that Rowling sees the series as an opportunity to establish a new generation of stars and fans, separate from the original films.
Casting the New Trio
Next month, casting directors will begin the monumental task of selecting the next Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger.
With over 32,000 audition tapes submitted, the process is expected to be rigorous.
The new child actors will lead a series that aims to introduce Harry Potter to a whole new audience.
Rowling’s influence over the series remains strong, and she has been vocal about distancing the reboot from the original trio of Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint.
The author’s recent social media posts have fueled speculation that she remains at odds with the former cast due to their public support for transgender rights.
A New Era Begins
With fresh faces stepping into these legendary roles, the HBO adaptation of Harry Potter promises to bring a new vision to the wizarding world.
Fans eagerly await further casting announcements as production gears up for its ambitious ten-year journey.