John Lithgow To Play Dumbeldore in HBO's New 'Harry Potter' Series

Following in the footsteps of Richard Harris and Michael Gambon who played the Hogwarts headmaster in the films.

In a recent interview with ScreenRant, John Lithgow confirmed that he will be playing the role of the iconic Hogwarts headmaster, Albus Dumbledore, in HBO‘s Harry Potter series. Just earlier this month, Variety reported that Lithgow was eyeing the role.

Lithgow spoke about taking on the role of Dumbledore, “Well, it came as a total surprise to me. I just got the phone call up at the Sundance Film Festival, 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.” He continued to add that he was excited and how he came about the take it on, “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.” At the age of 79, Lithgow could be looking for at least the next seven years in his life dedicated to playing Dumbledore.

The plan for the new series is set to make each of the books its own television series. So far, other characters in the film have yet to be confirmed.