Warner Bros
A new favorite has emerged to be cast as Voldemort in HBO’s Harry Potter series. Cillian Murphy, who was previously rumored to be taking on the role, “categorically” denied that he’s taking on the role.
“I’m categorically not,” the Oscar-winning actor told The Times of playing Voldemort. “Can you make that the headline?”
With Murphy seemingly pulling himself out of contention, reports now indicate that HBO is eyeing Academy Award-nominated Marvel Cinematic Universe star Paul Bettany to play the villainous part, which was iconically portrayed by Ralph Fiennes in the film franchise.
Reports indicate that HBO is eyeing Oscar-nominee Paul Bettany to play Voldemort in its upcoming Harry Potter series
Paul Bettany is reportedly at the top of HBO’s list to play Voldemort in the ‘HARRY POTTER’ series
(via: @DanielRPK) pic.twitter.com/A6ZdBXCDpg
— ScreenTime (@screentime) March 4, 2026
HBO’s Harry Potter series — which the network wants to run for at least a decade — is set to star Nick Frost as Hagrid, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall, and John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore. Newcomers Dominic McLaughlin Arabella Stanton, and Alastair Stout will star as the lead trio of Harry, Hermione and Ron, respectively.
Additionally confirmed cast members for the anticipated HBO series include Katherine Parkinson as Molly Weasley, Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy, Johnny Flynn as Lucius Malfoy, Leo Earley as Seamus Finnigan, Alessia Leoni as Parvati Patil, Sienna Moosah as Lavender Brown, Bertie Carvel as Cornelius Fudge. Bel Powley as Petunia Dursley, Daniel Rigby as Vernon Dursley, Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom, Amos Kitson as Dudley Dursley, Louise Brealey as Madam Rolanda Hooch and Anton Lesser as Garrick Ollivander.
HBO’s Harry Potter began production earlier this year and is set to premiere on the network in 2027.