Here's everything to know about HBO's 'Harry Potter' series, which may have recently cast its new Dumbledore After seven books, eight movies, one play and a whole spin-off series, Harry Potter is debuting on the small screen for the first time.

John Lithgow has confirmed that he will portray the Hogwarts headmaster in HBO’s upcoming “Harry Potter” series, which will begin filming this summer. Lithgow, 79, said in an interview with ScreenRant that the invitation to play the beloved character came “as a total surprise.”

When asked about the offer to play Dumbledore, Lithgow described the decision as "not easy," recognizing it could define the final phase of his illustrious career.