John Lithgow has addressed the backlash surrounding his casting as Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series, admitting he was apprehensive about accepting the role, both because of the reaction from fans and because of the planned length of the series.
Speaking on The One Show on Wednesday (16 April) the 79-year-old American actor said stepping into the shoes of the late Michael Gambon, who portrayed the Hogwarts headmaster in six of the original films, was both “very exciting” and “very intimidating.”
The decision to cast Lithgow, best known for roles in The Crown, Dexter and 3rd Rock From the Sun, prompted criticism from some fans who argued that Dumbledore should have remained a distinctly British role given to a British actor.
“I know there were plenty of people appalled that an American should be hired to play the ultimate English wizard,” Lithgow said, “but I will do my best.”
Responding with humour, he added: “I’m not English - although I’ve played one on TV. I remind everyone that I did play Winston Churchill on The Crown, and I did just fine.”
Lithgow admitted the decision to take on such a major role at this stage in his career was not taken lightly.
“It was not an easy decision because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid,” he said. “But some wonderful people are turning their attention back to Harry Potter - that’s why it’s been such a hard decision. I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”
Filming is set to begin this summer at Warner Bros Studios Leavesden — the same studios used for the original films. HBO has confirmed that the reboot, which will retell JK Rowling’s seven-book saga with a fresh cast and more faithful pacing, is planned to span a decade.
While the core trio of Harry, Ron and Hermione have yet to be announced, many of the major casting decisions were revealed this week. I May Destroy You star Paapa Essiedu will take on the role of Professor Snape, while Hot Fuzz star Nick Frost has been cast as Hagrid.
Elsewhere, taking over Dame Maggie Smith’s role of Minerva McGonagall is Golden Globe winner Janet McTeer. Additionally, Luke Thallon will play Defence Against the Dark Arts professor Quirinus Quirrell and Paul Whitehouse will take on the role of caretaker Argus Filch.
