Oscar-winning Dunkirk and BFG star in talks to play Dumbledore in new Harry Potter TV series

Warner Bros. Television is reportedly eyeing Oscar-winner Mark Rylance for the role of Albus Dumbledore in their upcoming Harry Potter TV series. 

Rylance, known for his roles in Bridge of Spies and Wolf Hall, has been approached to see if he’s interested and available to play the iconic wizard, as per Variety.

However, no official deal has been made in this regard by the studio.

The series will adapt J.K. Rowling’s seven books into a more detailed TV format, giving fans a deeper look at the characters and storylines than the original movies. 

Casting is currently underway, and there is an open call for kids aged 9 to 11 to play Harry, Ron, and Hermione. 

At the same time, the production team is in talks with seasoned actors for major adult roles, such as Hogwarts staff and other key characters.

Previously, Dumbledore was portrayed by Richard Harris in the first two movies, followed by Michael Gambon in the later films.

If Rylance takes the part, his portrayal could give the character a fresh perspective, which fits the show’s goal of presenting a new vision of the beloved story.

The show’s official description reads, “The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling.

“The series will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters Harry Potter fans have loved for over twenty-five years.”

The series is in pre-production and is expected to debut in 2026. 

Mark Rylance, 64, is currently starring in the highly praised BBC historical drama Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light. 

He won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Steven Spielberg’s 2015 thriller Bridge of Spies. He later collaborated with Spielberg again on The BFG and Ready Player One.

Rylance’s film credits include Bones and All, Don’t Look Up, Dunkirk, The Phantom of the Open and The Outfit.