More cast rumors about HBO‘s Harry Potter television series reveal that Paapa Essiedu won’t be the only cast member who may be giving a starkly different portrayal of J.K. Rowling’s classic characters.
Deadline reports that both Mark Strong and Mark Rylance are being considered for the role of Hogwarts Headmaster Albus Dumbledore, while Sharon Horgan could be vying with Rachel Weisz for the role of Deputy Headmistress Minerva McGonagall. Brett Goldstein’s name has also been thrown into the pot for Ruebus Hagrid, the Hogwarts gamekeeper and compatriot to Harry and his friends Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley.
This news comes out after Essiedu was announced as being highly considered for the role of potions teacher Severus Snape. Snape was originally portrayed by Alan Rickman in the films, making Essiedu’s portrayal different in many different ways, including race and age. Essiedu’s Snape will be Snape’s canonical age of 31, according to series director Mark Mylod. Other characters, like the Dursleys, Harry’s “muggle” family, will also be younger than they were in the films.
HBO’s official word on the rumor mill is that it is aware a project like Harry Potter will have tons of eyes on it.
“We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation,” the network said. “As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals.”
While established stars are being speculated for adult roles, the series’ team are looking for newcomers to play the roles of the main trio. According to Deadline, series writer Francesca Gardiner revealed that 32,000 children have sent in audition tapes hoping to become a part of the star-making project.
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