John Lithgow said he will play Dumbledore in the upcoming Harry Potter TV series.
Lithgow said he will play the beloved wizard in a Monday interview with ScreenRant, saying the decision is “going to define me for the last chapter of my life.”
The Conclave actor said the casting “came as a total surprise,” adding that the decision to take up the role in the new HBO series did not come easy.
“I just got the phone call up at the Sundance Film Festival for yet another film, and it was not an easy decision, because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid,” said Lithgow. “But I’m very excited.”
“Some wonderful people are turning their attention back to Harry Potter,” he added.
Speaking to the potential length of the commitment, the six-time Emmy winner said, “That’s why it’s been such a hard decision. I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”
HBO has not confirmed the casting.
The network said in a statement to Good Morning America Tuesday it “appreciate[s] that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals.”
Dumbledore was played by Richard Harris in the first two movies of the Harry Potter film franchise, with Michael Gambon stepping in to play the Hogwarts headmaster in the remaining projects following Harris’ death in October 2002. Jude Law portrayed Dumbledore in the Fantastic Beasts films.
Max officially announced the new Harry Potter series in 2023, stating in a press release at the time that the show would “feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail, much loved characters and dramatic locations that HarryPotter fans have loved for over twenty-five years.”
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The lovers, the dreamers and him.
Kermit the Frog is set to deliver the commencement address at the University of Maryland this spring. The university just so happens to be Jim Henson‘s alma mater, where he graduated with a degree in home economics in 1960.
The University of Maryland released a video announcing the commencement speaker, where it listed out all of the green amphibian’s accomplishments. The Muppet was described as an environmental advocate, bestselling author, Peabody Award winner, international superstar, “amphibitarian,” friend to all creatures and champion of creativity, kindness and believing in the impossible.
Kermit made a quick appearance at the end of the video announcement. “Uh, I guess it’s me,” he said.
In a statement shared by Entertainment Weekly, Kermit also said nothing could make him happier than to speak at the University of Maryland.
“I just know the class of 2025 is going to leap into the world and make it a better place, so if a few encouraging words from a frog can help, then I’ll be there!” Kermit said.
The university’s president, Darryll J. Pines, also shared a statement about Kermit coming to speak to the graduating class.
“I am thrilled that our graduates and their families will experience the optimism and insight of the world-renowned Kermit the Frog at such a meaningful time in their lives,” Pines said. “Our pride in Jim Henson knows no bounds, and it is an honor to welcome Kermit the Frog to our campus, 65 years after Mr. Henson graduated from the University of Maryland.”
This won’t be the first time Kermit will be celebrated at the university. A bronze statue of the famous frog sitting next to Henson is located on its campus in the Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
Kermit’s commencement speech will take place on May 21.
