The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached a significant milestone with the announcement of the first six cast members. While we eagerly await news on who will portray iconic characters like Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Lord Voldemort, we now have confirmation on who will bring to life Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and other key figures from the beloved wizarding world.

Read on to discover the officially confirmed cast for this fresh adaptation of Harry Potter, as well as the major characters yet to be announced.

Confirmed Cast:

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, has been cast as Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts. Dumbledore, one of the most powerful wizards in history, plays a pivotal role as a mentor to Harry Potter and has a complex backstory involving Gellert Grindelwald. Lithgow's extensive acting resume includes roles in "3rd Rock From the Sun," "Dexter," "The Crown," "Shrek," "The World According to Garp," "Perry Mason," "The Old Man," "Footloose," "Terms of Endearment," and "Interstellar," among others.

Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris portrayed Dumbledore in "Sorcerer’s Stone" and "Chamber of Secrets," while Michael Gambon took over the role for the remainder of the series. Toby Regbo and Jude Law have also played younger versions of the character.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Tony and Golden Globe Award winner Janet McTeer will portray Professor Minerva McGonagall, the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress at Hogwarts. McGonagall, introduced early in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone," is a beloved character known for her strict yet caring nature. McTeer's notable roles include "Me Before You," "The Menu," "Albert Nobbs," "Tumbleweeds," "The Old Man," "Ozark," and "Sorry for Your Loss."

Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films? Dame Maggie Smith played McGonagall in the original films, with Fiona Glascott taking on the role in the "Fantastic Beasts" series.

Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape

Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will embody Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. Snape's complex relationship with Harry Potter and his parents, James and Lily, adds depth to the series. Essiedu's previous work includes "I May Destroy You," "The Outrun," "Black Mirror," "Men," "The Lazarus Project," and "Gangs of London."

Who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films? Alan Rickman played Snape, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke portraying younger versions of the character.

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

Nick Frost will portray Rubeus Hagrid, the lovable half-giant and gamekeeper at Hogwarts. Hagrid is instrumental in Harry's journey, starting with his rescue from the Dursleys. Frost is known for his comedic roles in films such as "Shaun of the Dead," "Skeleton Crew," "The World’s End," "Hot Fuzz," and "Attack the Block."

Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane played Hagrid, with Martin Bayfield portraying the young Hagrid.

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

Luke Thallon will take on the role of Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. Thallon, a rising star, has appeared in "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter."

Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart portrayed Quirrell.

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

BAFTA-winning actor Paul Whitehouse will play Argus Filch, the caretaker of Hogwarts, often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse's notable works include "The Fast Show," "Harry & Paul," "The Death of Stalin," "Alice Through the Looking Glass," "Corpse Bride," and "Alice in Wonderland."

Who played Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films? David Bradley portrayed Filch.

Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:

The list of characters yet to be cast includes Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Lord Voldemort, Draco Malfoy, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Dolores Umbridge, Alastor Moody, Ginny Weasley, Luna Lovegood, Fred Weasley, George Weasley, Arthur Weasley, Molly Weasley, James Potter, Lily Potter, Bellatrix Lestrange, Neville Longbottom, Cedric Diggory, Dudley Dursley, Petunia Dursley, Vernon Dursley, Lucius Malfoy, Cho Chang, Seamus Finnigan, Dean Thomas, Gilderoy Lockhart, Dobby, Nearly Headless Nick, Moaning Myrtle, Sybill Trelawney, Filius Flitwick, and many more.

For more insights, explore our ranking of the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books, learn about the producing duo leading the charge on HBO’s reboot, and get our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.