HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter reboot is steadily coming to life, and the latest reveal has sparked both excitement and debate among fans. Newly released set photos give the first glimpse of John Lithgow as Dumbledore, fully transformed into the wise and eccentric headmaster of Hogwarts.
Lithgow, a 79-year-old Oscar nominee, was spotted in full wizarding regalia while filming on a beach in Cornwall. His striking blue robes, flowing white beard, and commanding presence have impressed many, with some fans noting that this iteration of Dumbledore feels closer to the “book-ish” aesthetic than previous portrayals. Onlookers reported seeing the actor rehearsing lines from cue cards containing Latin phrases including “Nurus cadat via pateat” and “Natura nihil omnia patefie posse Natura constiuit”. The translations suggest a spell meaning “Let the wall fall and the way be clear,” hinting at an all-new scene potentially featuring Dumbledore parting the sea so Hagrid can reach the “Hut-on-the-Rock” – a sequence not found in the original novels or films.
The reveal joins earlier sneak peeks of other characters in the reboot. Nick Frost has been photographed as a burly Rubeus Hagrid, while Dominic McLaughlin was spotted as a young Harry Potter. Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout are confirmed as Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, respectively. These fresh faces will take over the roles made famous by Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint. Additional cast members include Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape and veteran actors Warwick Davies, Louise Brealey, and Anton Lesser in yet-to-be-revealed roles.
Helmed by Succession alumni Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod, the series will adapt all seven Harry Potter books with one season devoted to each, aiming to capture subplots and details omitted from the films. Lithgow’s casting follows in the footsteps of Richard Harris, the original Dumbledore in the first two movies, and Michael Gambon, who held the role until his passing in 2023.
While many fans on platforms like Reddit and X have praised Lithgow’s majestic portrayal, admiring his dramatic presence and authentic costuming, some criticism has emerged over minor details—one user even complaining about Dumbledore wearing trousers. Still, the prevailing sentiment is excitement, especially for scenes that seem to offer new material within familiar stories.
The HBO Harry Potter reboot will premiere in 2027, promising deeper character arcs, expanded worldbuilding, and perhaps even original content to keep wizarding fans both nostalgic and surprised.
