Washington DC [US], June 9: Acclaimed actor Bertie Carvel, known for The Crown and Dalgliesh, has officially joined the cast of HBO’s much-anticipated Harry Potter TV series. Carvel will portray Cornelius Fudge, the often-controversial Minister of Magic, a role originally played by Robert Hardy in the film adaptations.
Carvel will be a recurring character in the series, joining an ensemble that includes several notable names and rising stars. Dominic McLaughlin, Alastair Stout, and Arabella Stanton have been cast as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger, respectively—marking a major break for the trio of largely unknown young actors.
Also part of the cast are Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, according to Deadline.
The new Harry Potter series has been described as a “faithful adaptation” of J.K. Rowling’s bestselling book series. Rowling is serving as executive producer amid continued public scrutiny and controversy.
The show is written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner, who will also act as showrunner. Veteran director Mark Mylod (Succession, Game of Thrones) is attached to direct multiple episodes. The project is produced by HBO in collaboration with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television. Executive producers also include Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts, and David Heyman, the latter having produced the original film franchise.
McLaughlin, who previously acted in the upcoming comedy Grow, will step into the role of Harry Potter. Stanton, known for playing Matilda in the West End (2023–2024), will portray Hermione Granger. Stout, for whom this is a breakout performance, takes on the role of Ron Weasley.
As anticipation builds for this reboot of one of the most beloved fantasy series of all time, HBO has remained tight-lipped about ongoing casting. “We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumour and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalise deals,” the network said in a statement.