Harry Potter Reboot: Jared Harris Rejects Playing His Dad’s Dumbledore Role

Jared Harris has sparked discussion among fans with his recent comments on the upcoming Harry Potter reboot, particularly regarding the role of Dumbledore. As the son of Richard Harris, who originally portrayed Dumbledore in the first two Harry Potter films, Jared Harris has made it clear that he has no interest in following in his father’s footsteps.

Jared Harris denies playing Dumbledore, questions Harry Potter reboot’s need

Jared Harris has ruled out the possibility of playing Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming Harry Potter TV series on HBO and MAX.

Harris, son of original Dumbledore actor Richard Harris, has ruled out taking on the role in the new series. In an interview with The Independent series Go to Bat, when asked about it, he responded with a clear “No, thank you.” He also questioned the need for the reboot, stating, “Also, I mean, why do it? I don’t understand. The films were fantastic – leave them alone.”

Despite his disinterest, Harris acknowledged that the TV series could cover “a lot of storytelling” left out of the original films. The new series, led by showrunner Francesca Gardiner and executive producer Mark Mylod, will adapt one of J.K. Rowling’s books per season. Currently, casting calls are open for the main characters: Harry, Ron, and Hermione. The search focuses on children from the U.K. and Ireland, specifically those aged 9 to 11.

Richard Harris originally portrayed Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets before his passing in 2002. Michael Gambon took over the role for the remainder of the movies and passed away in 2023.

While Jared Harris has declined the opportunity, Gary Oldman, who played Sirius Black in the films, has suggested he might consider playing Dumbledore “maybe in a few years.” (via Deadline)

The series is expected to debut in 2026.