New HBO 'Harry Potter' series casts Mark Rylance as Dumbledore

For years, speculation about the return of "Harry Potter" has persisted—a production that has shaped several generations. A documentary film featured the original actors, and on Max, you can also watch "Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses," a quiz show produced in 2021. Rumours about a series have been circulating for a while, but they are only now becoming a reality. Casting has begun, and an actor has already been chosen to play Albus Dumbledore.

Returning to the story of Hogwarts and its students will not be easy. Over the years, Alan Rickman, who played Snape, Robbie Coltrane, who portrayed Hagrid, and Michael Gambon, passed away in 2023. The latest blow for "Harry Potter" fans was the death of actress Maggie Smith, who played Professor McGonagall in the films. HBO, therefore, faces quite the challenge in recasting these iconic characters.

Although it has not yet been revealed who will play Harry, Ron, and Hermione, Variety reports that Mark Rylance is the leading candidate for the role of Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore.

Fans have long debated Dumbledore’s true nature—whether he is an unyielding hero or a more morally complex character. J.K. Rowling confirmed that Dumbledore is gay and had a romantic relationship with Gellert Grindelwald, which was only subtly outlined in adaptations until now.

Dumbledore is one of the most beloved and complex characters in the series. In the films, he was portrayed by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon, and in the "Fantastic Beasts" series, by Jude Law. Rylance, an Oscar winner for his role in "Bridge of Spies" and a renowned stage actor, could bring new depth to the character.

Recently, Mark Rylance has been seen in productions such as "Bones and All," "Don’t Look Up," and "The Trial of the Chicago 7."