John Lithgow as Dumbledore? Fans React to Age Concerns and British Casting Mandate

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Discussions about potentially playing Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming TV show have stirred apprehension among Harry Potter franchise enthusiasts, as some highlight a concerning detail that could echo past events. While responses to Lithgow’s reported final negotiations to assume the role of Hogwarts’ headmaster have been generally favorable, there are those who mention that, given the series’ length, Lithgow would likely need to live until he turns 90 to finish the entire show.

In today’s film industry, actors such as Samuel L. Jackson, Harrison Ford, and Anthony Hopkins are working tirelessly, even at ages that accumulate to nearly a quarter of a millennium combined. This means it’s quite likely that the 79-year-old will still be acting in front of cameras within the next decade. However, fans have drawn an interesting parallel between these seasoned actors and the original actor who portrayed the role, Richard Harris. This comparison, as pointed out by Amazing_Cover_7745, casts a somewhat somber light on selecting older actors for roles.

He’s a fantastic performer, yet I have concerns about his age as there’s a possibility of replicating the Richard Harris scenario. By the time they finish filming this series, he will be 90 years old.

This sentiment was shared by @AdamInHTownTX who expressed, “Lithgow is fantastic, but he’s also 79 years old. It would be unfortunate to have another actor portray Dumbledore only to need a replacement.” Other users made similar remarks, with some noting that Richard Harris was seven years younger than Lithgow’s current age when he passed away in 2002. Naturally, Harris’ past as a Hollywood “rebel” greatly differed from Lithgow’s lifestyle and health status.

Lithgow’s Dumbledore Casting Has One Bone of Contention

A brand new TV show, inspired by J.K. Rowling’s cherished novels, is set to introduce a unique perspective on the Wizarding World. One contentious topic surrounding this series is the choice of actors for some crucial roles, which have been previously embodied by performers who hold a special place in the hearts of many fans. The prospective casting of Lithgow as Dumbledore, for instance, has sparked discussions, with many advocating that the character should be portrayed by a British actor instead of an American.

In a conversation on Twitter under the topic X, CharlesAncelle expressed his preference for J.K. Rowling to stick with British actors playing British characters. Meanwhile, LordBotha voiced a similar concern about the American actor John Lithgow, who is also quite elderly.

In a discussion on Twitter, CharlesAncelle stated that he felt J.K. Rowling should use only British actors for portraying British characters. At the same time, LordBotha mentioned both this preference and his concern about Lithgow being American and quite old.

As a cinephile eagerly awaiting updates, I can’t help but feel the thrill as John Lithgow’s potential casting seems to be nearing its final stages. Yet, until HBO and Warner Bros. Discovery make an official announcement, it remains unconfirmed. Previously, Mark Rylance was a strong contender for the coveted role, almost certain to take it on, until the unfortunate passing of his wife last month caused him to decline the offer. With the new series slated to start filming later this year, we should be hearing about the official cast announcements soon enough.

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2025-02-15 20:06