Harry Potter: Cast Members for McGonagall and Snape Likely Found

The right actors appear to have been found for two more Hogwarts teachers. After John Lithgow himself recently announced that he would be appearing as Albus Dumbledore in the "Harry Potter" series, the industry magazine Deadline is now reporting that the casting for Professor McGonagall and Professor Snape is about to be decided!

Minerva McGonagall

According to the report, British actress Janet McTeer is currently in negotiations for the role of Minerva McGonagall. The Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts and also Head of House Gryffindor was played in the "Harry Potter" films by the recently deceased Maggie Smith.

Janet McTeer became famous for her roles in "The Woman in Black" and "Me Before You", for example. The actress has also appeared in the Netflix series "Ozark" and the Marvel series "Jessica Jones".

Severus Snape

The casting of Severus Snape also seems to be on the horizon. The name of actor Paapa Essiedu has often been mentioned in the rumors. According to Deadline, the Brit is now on the verge of signing a contract. Severus Snape is the Slytherin tutor with a Death Eater past. The complex character is an absolute fan favorite, both in the books and in the films.

Essiedu will have big shoes to fill, as the role of Severus Snape is associated for many with the legendary Alan Rickman. Paapa Essiedu has previously appeared in series such as "Black Mirror", "I May Destroy You" and "Gangs of London".

The casting of the HBO series is therefore progressing more and more. It can be assumed that more information will gradually leak out in the coming weeks.

The new "Harry Potter" series will adapt the seven books by J.K. Rowling in one season each. Francesca Gardiner is the showrunner and holds creative responsibility. She has already gained fantasy experience as a writer for "His Dark Materials". It is also known that Mark Mylod is on board as director. Mylod has already directed several episodes of top-class HBO series such as "Game of Thrones" and "Succession".

There is no release date yet, but it is likely that the first season will not premiere until late 2026 or even 2027 at the earliest.

Minerva McGonagall and Severus Snape: Two Unforgettable Characters from the "Harry Potter" Books and Films

The "Harry Potter" movies have not only thrilled an entire generation of fans, but have also created a multitude of characters that have gone deep into the collective memory of viewers. Two of these characters are Professor Minerva McGonagall and Professor Severus Snape.

Minerva McGonagall

Professor Minerva McGonagall is one of the most respected characters in the entire "Harry Potter" series. As a teacher of transfiguration and Head of House Gryffindor, McGonagall stands out not only for her academic expertise, but also for her unwavering loyalty and courage.

McGonagall is a woman of great wisdom and authority. Her firm hand and astute mind make her one of the most respected teachers at Hogwarts. She has a strong, almost maternal bond with her students, especially those who belong to her house, and shows time and time again that she is willing to fight for what is right, no matter the risks involved.

As the films progress, it becomes apparent that McGonagall is also a significant political figure in the fight against Voldemort. She plays a central role in the resistance of the wizarding world, especially in the defense of Hogwarts in the final part of the series. Her role as protector of the school and the values she represents make her an important figure in the resistance against the dark regime.

Severus Snape

Professor Severus Snape is for many fans one of the most fascinating and complex characters in the "Harry Potter" series. Initially introduced as the gloomy and often cruel potions teacher, Snape develops into one of the most tragic and unforgettable characters in the entire saga over the course of the movies.

Snape is presented as the typical antagonist in the first parts of the films: an unkind and often unjust teacher who repeatedly expresses his dislike for Harry Potter and other students. His dark, almost sinister presence makes him seem like a classic villain. But over time, viewers learn more and more about his complex past, his painful losses and the true motivations behind his behavior.

The biggest revelation comes in the final movie: it turns out that he worked for years as a spy for the Order of the Phoenix and played a crucial role in the fight against Voldemort. His love for Harry's mother, Lily Potter, and the sacrifices he has made for her and her son give his character a tragic depth. The tragic dimension of his character is further enhanced by Alan Rickman's outstanding performance, making Snape one of the most memorable characters in the entire film series.