Actor officially cast in new HBO Harry Potter series had part in original movies

One of the actors cast in the upcoming Harry Potter series actually had a role in the original films, though you probably missed it.

You've probably seen that the first six cast members of HBO's Harry Potter series have been announced, including the likes of John Lithgow and Nick Frost confirmed to portray Dumbledore and Hagrid, respectively.

The majority of the cast is still yet to be announced, with the actors behind the titular role and the rest of the iconic trio yet to be confirmed, as well as who will be responsible for playing he who shall not be named.

Several big names were thrown around leading up to the announcement, which producers said was a list of 'extraordinary talent' that would introduce a new generation to JK Rowling's iconic Wizarding World.

It was reported that an open casting call took place last autumn for the roles of Harry, Ron and Hermione, but while some are waiting for those actors to be announced, others have noticed the inclusion of a familiar face in the cast.

Hogwarts caretaker Argus Filch will be played by British comedian Paul Whitehouse, who rose to fame on The Fast Show in the 90s and 00s.

But some eagle-eyed fans may have spotted the actor in the original films - but not in the cinema.

Whitehouse actually played Sir Cadogan in the third film of the original series, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, though unfortunately, his scenes were removed from the final cut.

Whitehouse's scenes were cut from the third film (Warner Bros)

Much like Rik Mayall, who played Peeves the Poltergeist, most movie goers wouldn't know of their involvements in the franchise.

However, die-hard fans that splashed the cash on the disc release of the third film will have seen Whitehouse's scenes in the bonus features.

But now, Whitehouse fans can rest assured that the 66-year-old will be making several appearances in the series, as squib Argus Filch.

TV fans will be eager to see how the former comedy sketch actor will play the role of the grumpy caretaker, and if he comes across Nick Frost as Hagrid, as the comics are sure to bring a smile to fans' faces.

If you didn't buy the disc, you wouldn't have seen his scenes (Warner Bros)

But now, 21 years on from the release of the Prisoner of Azkaban, it's finally Whitehouse's time to shine as one of Hogwarts' staff members.

Harry Potter fans will be eagerly keeping an eye on announcements from HBO in the coming months, as the new Daniel Radcliffe is yet to be confirmed.