The Harry Potter TV series might have found its Dumbledore – and it's the star of one of Steven Spielberg's best dramas

Harry Potter TV rumored casting: Mark Rylance as Dumbledore
(Image credit: Getty Images)

The Harry Potter TV show might have found its Dumbledore. Actor Mark Rylance, best known for his roles in Steven Spielberg's Bridge of Spies and Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk, is being eyed for the major role.

According to Variety, HBO has reached out to gauge interest and availability for the upcoming reboot. Negotiations haven't yet begun, but it's a clear sign of intent from HBO to recruit some big talent for their reimagining of the wizarding world.

No casting has been announced yet for the Harry Potter show, but it's understood that the main trio – Harry, Ron, and Hermione – will be played by newcomers. Earlier this year, HBO put out an open casting call for children between the ages of 9 and 11.

It is important to note that the upcoming HBO Harry Potter series has been the subject of criticism and debate due to the show’s executive producer and author J.K. Rowling’s very public and harmful stance on gender identity. It was a similar situation with the Hogwarts Legacy launch. For more, read more about the Hogwarts Legacy controversy.

Fay Watson
Deputy Entertainment Editor

I’m the Deputy Entertainment Editor here at GamesRadar+, covering TV and film for the Total Film and SFX sections online. I previously worked as a Senior Showbiz Reporter and SEO TV reporter at Express Online for three years. I've also written for The Resident magazines and Amateur Photographer, before specializing in entertainment.