The spell has finally been cast — HBO has unveiled a few key actors for its much-anticipated Harry Potter television series, and the choices are already conjuring plenty of buzz in the fandom.

John Lithgow will take on the role of Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer will portray Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu will play Severus Snape, and Nick Frost will be Rubeus Hagrid. Luke Thallon will bring Quirinus Quirrell to life, and Paul Whitehouse will play Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker.

This casting reveal marks the first major update since HBO confirmed that production would begin this summer at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, the very site where all eight original films were made. And unlike the films, which had to trim J.K. Rowling’s massive story into digestible theatrical chunks, the HBO series will go full “Time Turner” with one book per season, giving room for richer storytelling and long-missed subplots.

That means we might finally see Peeves the Poltergeist causing chaos in the halls, Hermione’s S.P.E.W. campaign in full swing, and more time spent exploring side characters, magical creatures, and the inner workings of the Wizarding World.

Of course, the show enters production with a lot of excitement and the heavy weight of expectation. The original films grossed over $7.7 billion globally, and for many fans, those portrayals have become iconic. Can this series recapture that lightning-in-a-bottle magic — while also casting a fresh spell?

It’s also worth noting that J.K. Rowling will serve as an executive producer on the project. While that may reassure fans looking for book-faithful storytelling, her involvement may also reignite controversy due to her public statements on gender issues.

Still, with production set to begin soon and a tentative 2026 premiere date, one thing is clear: the doors to Hogwarts are creaking open once again. A new generation is about to receive its letter.

Accio, remote. This is going to be one magical ride.

[Via CB]