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 was no coincidence—J.K. Rowling famously insisted that the cast remain British during the development of the original film series, The Telegraph reports.
Even Hollywood legends like Steven Spielberg and Robin Williams were reportedly turned down due to this strict guideline.
News of the actor’s potential casting has sparked a wave of backlash among fans, with one person questioning, “How hard is it to find a British older actor? Is that too much to ask?”
Another chimed in, “But he’s American… and very, very old.”
Sharing the disappointment, a third added, “Really? That doesn’t get me hyped.”
Meanwhile, someone else fumed, “This has to be the absolute worst casting I could imagine for Dumbledore.”
For many, it’s not just about nationality—it’s about honoring the legacy of the character.
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 might recognize John Lithgow as the voice of Lord Farquaad in Shrek, his role in Daddy’s Home 2, or his performance in the hit series Dexter.
News of the American actor’s potential casting has left many fans disappointed, believing it strays too far from the franchise’s British roots.
However, some are open to the idea, with one fan enthusing, “He is perfect for the part. It would be a great casting move.”
Lithgow has already proven his ability to take on British roles, most notably portraying Winston Churchill in The Crown—a performance that earned him an Emmy and a BAFTA nomination.
If his casting is confirmed, his acting skills and ability to master the accent will undoubtedly face intense scrutiny from 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.
