'Harry Potter' fans debate over American Dumbledore as John Lithgow nears deal to play role in HBO series

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: HBO’s 'Harry Potter' reboot is already stirring up controversy as latest report suggests that veteran American actor John Lithgow is in talks to take on the iconic role of Albus Dumbledore.

This move would reportedly mark a significant departure from the franchise’s long-standing tradition of casting British and Irish actors in major roles.

HBO’s ‘Harry Potter’ reboot sparks casting debate

The original 'Harry Potter' films were a who’s who of British and Irish acting royalty, including Maggie Smith, Alan Rickman, Gary Oldman, Richard Harris, Michael Gambon.

The casting of an American actor as the beloved Hogwarts headmaster would be a major shift, and fans are already divided over it.

HBO has neither confirmed nor denied Lithgow’s involvement, responding to Deadline with a cautious statement.

It read, “We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals.”

However, Deadline’s sources indicate that Lithgow is nearing a deal, making this one of the most talked-about casting decisions in the franchise’s history.

Lithgow, a two-time Academy Award nominee and six-time Emmy winner, is best known for roles in 'The Crown', 'Dexter', 'Bombshell', '3rd Rock from the Sun' and countless other acclaimed projects.

He has the acting chops to play a wise and complex character like Dumbledore, but will fans accept a non-British actor in the role?

JK Rowling's 'Harry Potter' HBO reboot casting buzz

John Lithgow isn’t the only name circulating in 'Harry Potter' HBO series casting discussions.

Paapa Essiedu ('I May Destroy You') is reportedly in consideration for the role of Severus Snape.

Gary Oldman, who played Sirius Black in the original films, has joked that he could return to the franchise—this time as Dumbledore.

Oldman has also thrown his support behind Cillian Murphy ('Oppenheimer' and 'Peaky Blinders') as the next Voldemort. 

HBO is leaving no stone unturned in its search for the new Harry, Ron, and Hermione, with over 32,000 submissions received so far.

Despite the ongoing controversies surrounding JK Rowling, HBO content chief Casey Bloys has stated that her involvement in the casting process has been "fairly involved."

He also emphasized that her views on transgender rights “haven’t affected” actors' interest in the project.

'Harry Potter' fans debate over John Lithgow's potential portrayal of Albus Dumbledore

'Harry Potter' fans had mixed reactions to the news. Some fans are protesting over an American actor stepping into the iconic British role, while others can't wait to see him on screen.

One fan shared, "Nothing against John Lithgow, but he's an American who was horribly cast as Churchill on The Crown. His accent would come and go and it wasn't believable. To hire him for this iconic role, when he clearly cannot portray a British character, it would take away from the magic."

Another simply declared, "He's American...," referring to the fact that Dumbledore's nationality was British.

A different viewer pointed out, "That's a crazy thing."

A follower commented, "I could buy that."

One opinion stated, "I approve this aooo HARD!"

Another individual observed, "This is perfect casting Make it happen."

As someone explained, "Interesting choice, didn't see that coming. But looking forward to it."

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