John Lithgow’s portrayal of Professor Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter television series has ignited a flurry of reactions from fans online. Recently, the 79-year-old actor was photographed on location at a beach in England, dressed in full wizard attire, revealing the first glimpse of his character since production commenced in July 2025.
Lithgow was seen wearing a flowing robe, a waist-length white beard, and a pair of small round glasses, all iconic features of the beloved character. The images, shared on social media, have prompted both praise and criticism from the Harry Potter fan community.
Mixed Fan Reactions
Many fans have responded positively to Lithgow’s appearance, commending his casting and the overall aesthetic. One user expressed enthusiasm on X, stating, “He looks good but tbh I don’t have any concerns regarding Dumbledore anyway. John Lithgow is a fine actor and will do justice to the character for sure.” Another user remarked on the resemblance to the video game Hogwarts Legacy, adding, “I love him! His outfit has a Hogwarts Legacy vibe. Maybe a bit too long beard but that’s a detail.”
Supporters also drew comparisons between Lithgow and previous Dumbledore actors, with one comment declaring, “LOVE IT JOHN LITHGOW IS SUCH AN EXCELLENT ACTOR RIGHT UP THERE WITH RICHARD HARRIS AND MICHAEL GAMBON. CANT WAIT.”
Despite the positive feedback, not all reactions have been favorable. Some fans expressed disappointment, particularly regarding Lithgow’s beard, which several deemed “fake” and “cheap.” One user commented, “The beard looks fake as Hell in the picture on the left. Here’s hoping they can fix that in post.” Another added, “Not impressed. Only a fan of the original.”
Anticipation for the Series
The Harry Potter television series, which is expected to premiere in 2027, aims to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved franchise. The mixed reactions to Lithgow’s portrayal of Dumbledore highlight the challenges of adapting such iconic characters.
The debate surrounding Lithgow’s first look demonstrates the passion and investment fans have in the series. As production continues, it remains to be seen how the final product will be received by both long-time fans and new audiences alike.
With a rich history and a dedicated following, the Harry Potter series is poised to generate significant interest, and Lithgow’s performance will undoubtedly be a focal point of discussion as the release date approaches.