HBO is forging ahead with its ambitious new Harry Potter TV series, and it seems they've found their Professor Dumbledore in the form of the acclaimed actor John Lithgow. In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Lithgow confirmed his acceptance of the iconic role, describing it as a defining moment in the "last chapter" of his career.

"Well, it came as a total surprise to me," Lithgow remarked. "I received the call while at the Sundance Film Festival for another project. It wasn't an easy decision because it's going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid." Despite the weight of the decision, he expressed excitement about working with the talented team bringing the Harry Potter universe back to life. "But I’m very excited. 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."

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While Lithgow's casting has been verbally confirmed, it's important to note that HBO and Warner Bros. have yet to officially announce his involvement. This new Harry Potter TV series aims to re-adapt all of J.K. Rowling's books, introducing a fresh cast to portray beloved characters such as Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley, among others. Rowling herself will be an executive producer, joined by Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts.

Given that the series still lacks a full cast, it's clear that production may still be some time away. John Lithgow, a seasoned actor renowned for his roles in film and television, is perhaps best remembered for his Emmy-winning performance as Winston Churchill in the first season of Netflix's The Crown, as well as his role as Dick Solomon in the sitcom 3rd Rock from the Sun.