HBO is reportedly in final negotiations with John Lithgow, the acclaimed actor known for his role as Lord Farquaad in Shrek, to portray the iconic Hogwarts headmaster, Albus Dumbledore, in its upcoming Harry Potter reboot. Variety reports that Lithgow is close to securing the coveted role, although HBO has declined to officially confirm the casting. This news follows November reports naming Mark Rylance as a top contender for the Dumbledore part.

"We appreciate that such a high-profile series will generate considerable speculation," an HBO spokesperson stated. "As we progress through pre-production, we will only confirm details upon finalizing agreements."

Lithgow's extensive and celebrated career includes roles in films such as The World According to Garp, Terms of Endearment, and Footloose, as well as television appearances in Dexter and The Crown.

The series will maintain a focus on British talent, mirroring the films. This approach is perhaps unsurprising given J.K. Rowling's reported involvement in the casting process.

Announced in April 2023, the Harry Potter series aims to be a faithful adaptation of the novels, promising a more in-depth exploration of the story than the film adaptations allowed. Succession producers Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod are attached to direct and write, with Mylod also having worked on Game of Thrones.