Credit: Warner Bros. Studios
New Harry Potter TV Show ‘Has Chosen’ Shrek Actor To Play Dumbledore
The upcoming Harry Potter TV show is reportedly eyeing an actor from Shrek to play the role of Albus Dumbledore – and many are making the same complaint.
While the star is undoubtedly a talented and respected actor, many fans take issue with one major detail – he’s American, not British.
The Harry Potter universe has been celebrated for its distinctly British identity for years.
From its setting in the fictional Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to its cast filled with esteemed British actors, the franchise has always prided itself on authenticity.
This wasn’t by accident; J.K. Rowling famously insisted that the cast remain British when the original film series was in development, The Telegraph reports.
Even Hollywood giants like Steven Spielberg and Robin Williams were reportedly turned away due to this strict rule.
News of the actor’s potential casting has sent shockwaves through the fandom, with one person complaining: “Like how hard is it to find a British older actor? Is that too much to ask?”
“But he’s American… and very, very old,” another added.
In agreement, a third said: “Really? That doesn’t get me hyped.”
Somebody else fumed: “This has to be the absolute worst casting I could imagine for Dumbledore.”
It’s not just about nationality for fans, it’s also about preserving a legacy.
Richard Harris and Michael Gambon, both of whom played Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in the original films, were not just talented actors; they were emblematic of the series’ British charm.
Their performances helped solidify Dumbledore as a wise, enigmatic, and deeply rooted figure in Hogwarts’ magical history.
Yet according to Deadline, veteran American actor John Lithgow is on the shortlist for the coveted ‘new Dumbledore’ role.
You may know Lithgow from his voice acting as Lord Farquaad in Shrek, his appearance in Daddy’s Home 2, or his role in the hit series Dexter.
News of the American actor’s potential casting has sparked a wave of disappointment among fans, who feel that this decision strays too far from the franchise’s roots.
Of course, some fans are willing to give Lithgow a chance, as one person enthuses: “He is perfect for the part. It would be a great casting move.”
After all, the actor has already proven that he can handle British roles, most notably playing Winston Churchill in The Crown, a performance that earned him an Emmy and a BAFTA nomination.
If his casting is officially confirmed, his acting chops and ability to master an accent will likely be scrutinized heavily by Harry Potter purists.
There’s also the question of whether Lithgow will be able to commit to the role long-term.
The new Harry Potter series is expected to run for a decade, and at 79 years old, Lithgow would be pushing 90 by the time the show wraps.
Despite the backlash, HBO is yet to officially confirm Lithgow’s casting, stating only that they will announce details once deals are finalized.
In the meantime, fans continue to voice their frustration, hoping that the series producers will reconsider and stick to the original vision of an all-British cast.
Related Article: J.K. Rowling Says She’ll Never Forgive Emma Watson And Daniel Radcliffe
Related Article: Emma Watson Says Everyone Wanted To Be On-Set For Her ‘Incest’ Harry Potter Moment
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