`It came as a complete surprise`: Dumbledore`s role in the `Harry Potter` series will be played by an Interstellar star

And it seems that this is the perfect candidate for the role of headmaster of the school of magic.

The role went to 79-year-old Oscar nominee John Lithgow, known for movies like "Interstellar" and "Pet Sematary." According to him, the offer to play Albus Dumbledore was "a complete surprise." He calls the upcoming filming "the last chapter of his life."

In an interview with ScreenRant, he admitted that he was unsure whether to accept the offer:
Well, it was a complete surprise to me. It was not an easy decision because, I'm afraid, it will define me in the last chapter of my life. But I am very excited. I'll be about 87 at the wrap party, but I said 'yes.'
John Lithgow

Official or Not?

Interestingly, despite Lithgow's words, HBO (developing the series) has yet to rush with an official confirmation. The channel stated that casting information will be disclosed only after all contracts are finalized.
Actor John Lithgow in glasses and a black jacket looks to the side
Actor John Lithgow in a scene from the series 'The Old Man' 2022
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So, the actor jumped the gun a bit, revealing his participation in the project prematurely. But fan comments can't be stopped now. They are widely discussing Lithgow's casting on social media.

A ScreenRant user with the nickname Ayemorena believes the actor is perfect for the role of the headmaster of the school of magic:
Great choice for the role. John Lithgow is an outstanding actor who will do well in this role. We're in good hands!
Ayemorena

Opinion

Lithgow is an experienced actor, with over 130 roles according to IMDB. Besides an Oscar nomination, he is a winner of two Golden Globe Awards, six Emmy Awards, two Tony Awards, and a Grammy nomination. But can he convincingly play Dumbledore?

Previously, Albus was played by Richard Harris (died in 2002) and Michael Gambon (died in 2023), and Jude Law, who left a significant mark on the franchise's history. Gambon, by viewer assessment on Ranker, is considered the best Dumbledore of the three variations.
Three men in wizard costumes from the Harry Potter universe films
Actors Richard Harris, Michael Gambon, and Jude Law as Albus Dumbledore
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Given the fans' love for the "Harry Potter" world, the choice of an actor for such an iconic role will undoubtedly spark much debate. Moreover, Lithgow is an American, which may raise questions among some fans:
'It will be interesting to see if he plays with a British accent or 'fully immerses' in the role, and if he can successfully add a bit of Irish to it'; 'I hope he has read the books or will read them to know what he's doing and not repeat Gambon's mistakes, who never read the books'
Fan Opinion
We will find out if Lithgow can handle the role by the end of 2026 or early 2027. The filming is planned to start in the summer of 2025.

Who would you prefer to see as Dumbledore?

Earlier, we at zoomboola.com talked about an actor who is vying for the role of Severus Snape in the "Harry Potter" series.