Mark Rylance in Talks to Play Dumbledore in ‘Harry Potter’ Series

According to sources familiar with the project, renowned actor Mark Rylance has emerged as a leading contender for a prominent role in the upcoming HBO adaptation of “Harry Potter,” as reported by Variety.

Currently captivating audiences as Thomas Cromwell in the highly-anticipated BBC drama “Wolf Hall: The Mirror and The Light,” Rylance is reportedly being considered for the role of Dumbledore. Insider information suggests that discussions are underway regarding his potential involvement.

While it has not yet entered formal negotiations, Warner Bros. Television has made initial inquiries to assess Rylance’s interest and availability. Representatives for Rylance have not immediately commented, and an HBO spokesperson stated, “We recognize that a high-profile series like this will naturally generate rumors and speculation. As we progress through pre-production, we will confirm details only once agreements are finalized.”

Although the lead roles of Harry, Hermione, and Ron are likely to be filled by newcomers—following an open casting call for children aged 9 to 11—Warner Bros. aims to enlist some of the U.K.’s most esteemed actors for the adult roles, reminiscent of the original film adaptations.

Finding actors willing to commit to a potential seven-season journey, corresponding to each book, presents a significant challenge. Mark Rylance, now 64, is one of the respected talents being considered for this demanding role.

The HBO series, which was first announced in 2023, is expected to provide a more detailed exploration of the beloved series and is scheduled to premiere in 2026.