The world has finally gotten its first glimpse of John Lithgow as Dumbledore in the upcoming Harry Potter reboot, and it’s nothing short of astonishing. The transformation is so convincing that one might wonder if someone has been using Polyjuice Potion. While the 79-year-old Oscar nominee’s new look is likely the result of expert hair and makeup rather than any magical transfiguration, it’s still a breathtaking sight to behold.
Lithgow, who will be portraying the Hogwarts headmaster in HBO’s small-screen Harry Potter TV reboot, was spotted on a beach in Cornwall, fully dressed in his iconic costume. This is the first time fans have seen the new design for the legendary wizard, and he looks every bit the part with his striking blue robes and impressive beard.
According to those present at the scene, Dumbledore wasn’t just there to enjoy the scenery. He was also reading lines from cue cards, which appeared to contain what looked like a magic spell. The words on the cards were “Nurus cadat via pateat” and “Natura nihil omnia patefie posse Natura constiuit.” Although these are not from the original books, fans on Reddit have translated them. They believe the Latin phrases mean something along the lines of “Let the wall fall and the way be clear.”
Fans have speculated that this scene could involve Dumbledore parting the sea so that Hagrid can reach the Hut-on-the-Rock, where the Dursleys took Harry to avoid a flood of Hogwarts letters. However, this specific scene isn’t found in the original books.
While the exact placement of this scene in the series remains unknown, one thing is certain: fans are thrilled with Lithgow’s portrayal of Dumbledore. One user, ira_1991, wrote on Reddit: “He looks so good! Tbh this version of Dumbledore looks so majestic.” Another user, ttas93, commented: “Honestly, looks better than I expected. Is it just me, or do they all seem to be nailing the ‘book-ish’ aesthetic much more in terms of character designs? It feels like we’re watching the artworks come to life.”
Diligent_Feeling_784 shared similar sentiments, saying: “I actually got goosebumps, he looks goddamn majestic.” Pliolite added: “Magnificent! and I’m so glad scenes like this are being included, cause it means we’ve got new stuff to look forward to. So impressed by Lithgow’s look here. Dumbledore looks pained, and in the middle of a very dramatic moment.”
It’s not just Reddit users who are excited about this development. On X@WW_Direct, someone posted: “I’m speechless. John Lithgow as Dumbledore is already perfect.” @IrisThinksMeh added: “I love it! And the outfit is perfect as well… Lithgow feels extra special for some reason, I’m not sure yet why. These pictures hit right in the feels, don’t they?”
Of course, not everyone is thrilled. Some fans have expressed disappointment over Dumbledore wearing trousers, but as the saying goes, you can’t please everyone.
Lithgow is joined by an impressive cast, including Warwick Davies, Nick Frost, Paapa Essiedu, Louise Brealey, and Anton Lesser. Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton, and Alastair Stout will play the new Golden Trio: Harry, Hermione, and Ron.
The first season of the Harry Potter TV show is set to debut in early 2027.
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