John Lithgow admits he's in 'last chapter of his life' as he explains why he accepted Dumbledore role in new Harry Potter series
John Lithgow is set to step into some big shoes as he confirmed he would be starring as Dumbledore in the upcoming Harry Potter series.
The American actor is best known for his roles in films such as Footloose and Shrek after making a name for himself in theatre, but playing the Headmaster of Hogwarts will surely cap off a successful acting career.
Speaking in a new interview with ScreenRant, Lithgow confirmed he will play Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO television series, following the likes of Richard Harris and Michael Gambon in playing the Grand Master.
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It's rumoured that production for the show will begin in mid-2025, with the plan to shoot one season per book, giving fans a more in-depth look at the Wizarding World.
It means that Harry Potter fanatics can expect seven seasons of the series, which will feature a fresh new cast for another generation to connect with.
Lithgow's casting as Dumbledore has already broken an old rule of author J.K. Rowling's though, as the cast of the original films exclusively featured British actors.
Casting director Janet Hirshenson confirmed this rule, even admitting that Robin Williams was turned down for the role of Hagrid due to him being American.
But Lithgow doesn't seem too fazed by the prospect of playing the bearded wizard, though he admitted 'it came as a total surprise to me'.
The 79-year-old went on, making a heartbreaking admission about taking the role: “I just got the phone call up at the Sundance Film Festival, and it was not an easy decision because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid.
“But I’m very excited.”
Lithgow is excited that people are 'turning their attention' back to the franchise, and pointed out: “I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”
However, this could easily be more, knowing how many films and series get delayed due to shoots overrunning.
Despite Lithgow revealing that he will be taking on the role, HBO itself hasn't confirmed anything yet, as a spokesperson told ScreenRant that they 'will only confirm details as we finalise deals'.
As for the famous trio of Harry, Hermione and Ron, a new set of actors will take on the roles, as Warner Bros. announced an open casting call for child actors between the ages of nine and 11 last year.
HBO insisted the series will be 'a faithful adaptation' that 'will feature a new cast', and explained it will be 'full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters Harry Potter fans have loved for over twenty-five years'.
If you're worried about Dumbledore sounding like he's from across the pond though, you'll be glad to know that Lithgow has used a British accent in the past when he portrayed Winston Churchill in The Crown.
So it looks like we're in safe hands.
LADbible has previously reached out to HBO for comment.
Topics: Harry Potter, HBO, TV and Film
Joshua Nair