Jared Harris declines Dumbledore role in upcoming Harry Potter series; here's why
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According to reports, Jared Harris—son of the late Richard Harris, who played Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films—has decided not to be considered for the role of the renowned wizard in the future HBO and Max television series adaptations of J.K. Rowling's books.
Jared Harris' response on Dumbledore role
"No, thank you." That was the actor's response when questioned about the possibility of playing Dumbledore in an interview for The Independent series Go to Bat. He has appeared in shows such as Chernobyl and Mad Men. "Also, I mean, why do it? I don’t understand," Jared chimed in, adding that the movies were great; don't touch them.
Although Jared has no desire to play his beloved father's role again, he revealed to the magazine that HBO's decision to air the series allowed for the inclusion of much more storytelling in the newer, longer Harry Potter films. The series will focus on one of Rowling's novels per season.
Creative team behind the new series
As the new Harry Potter series takes flight, Francesca Gardiner—the brains behind Succession, His Dark Materials, and Killing Eve—will oversee the show. Fellow Succession graduate Mark Mylod, also attached as an executive producer, will direct a number of episodes.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2001) and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002) both featured Richard Harris as Dumbledore, the character he first played. The role in the second film was Richard's last acting gig. He passed away in October 2002, at the age of 72. For the subsequent films in the series, Michael Gambon played the part of Dumbledore.
Gary Oldman's interest in Dumbledore role
Harry Potter star Gary Oldman recently made waves by expressing interest in playing the wizard in a few years, but Jared has no interest in the role. In the film series, Oldman played the role of Sirius Black.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione, the show's three main characters, have their casting call officially opened, according to Variety. The casting call is seeking children from the United Kingdom and Ireland who will be nine or ten years old in April 2025. The announcement further states that all races, nationalities, and gender identities would be welcome during the casting process.
Commitment to inclusive and diverse casting
It states that their dedication lies in promoting inclusive and diverse casting. Unless otherwise stated, they ask that one submit qualified performers for all roles, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, or any other legally protected characteristic.
The Harry Potter television series aims to launch on HBO and Max in 2026.
