Ralph Fiennes, who portrayed Voldemort in the Harry Potter films, appeared to suggest during a red carpet interview that Cillian Murphy has been cast in the role for the upcoming HBO series. The actor's comments have reignited speculation among fans, despite Murphy previously dismissing the idea. No official confirmation has been made by HBO or Murphy's representatives.
The buzz around the HBO adaptation of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter books continues to grow as casting details emerge. Announced in 2023, the series aims to stay faithful to the original novels and introduce the wizarding world to new audiences. Filming is already underway, with a planned release in early or mid-2027 for the first season of eight episodes.
Key roles have been filled, including Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. Additional cast members include John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid. The role of the iconic villain Voldemort, first played by Fiennes in the 2005 film Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, remains unannounced officially.
During a recent red carpet appearance, possibly for his film 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, Fiennes was asked who should succeed him as Voldemort. He replied, "Well, I'm told they're already filled, aren't they? I've already said I think Cillian Murphy is very good. A very, very good choice. I think they've cast it, haven't they? I don't know, I thought they had." Fiennes had previously endorsed Murphy on Watch What Happens Live in 2024, stating, "Cillian is a fantastic actor. That’s a wonderful suggestion. I would be all in favour of Cillian. Yeah."
Murphy, known for roles in Peaky Blinders and his Oscar-winning performance in Oppenheimer, addressed the rumors on the Happy Sad Confused podcast in September 2024. He said, "No," and added, "It’s really hard to follow anything Ralph Fiennes does. He’s the man. An absolute acting legend. Good luck to whoever is going to fill those shoes."
Fan reactions on X are mixed. Some expressed excitement, with one user calling it "the best choice," while others voiced disappointment, citing potential backlash linked to Rowling's controversies as an executive producer. Previous betting odds had Murphy at 4/1, alongside names like Matt Smith and Paul Bettany. HBO and Murphy's team have been contacted for comment but have not responded.
