Actor playing Dumbledore in HBO Harry Potter remake breaks silence after fan backlash
John Lithgow is set to play Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO TV show Harry Potter: The Order of the Phoenix and he has spoken about the backlash he has faced
An actor set to play Dumbledore in a Harry Potter remake left fans divided after he was picked for the role, but has assured viewers he's up to the task.
Despite some scepticism about the casting choice, the actor remains confident, asserting that he will do "just fine" in the upcoming HBO series.
His remarks have sparked discussion among fans on the r/popculturechat subreddit, with many confident he will exceed expectations.
Dumbledore was originally played by Richard Harris in the film series, which featured Daniel Radcliffe as the eponymous wizard. After Harris passed away, Michael Gambon assumed the mantle, taking on the role from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban onward. Jude Law then played Dumbledore in the Fantastic Beasts prequel films.
British comedy stalwart Nick Frost has been cast as Hagrid and Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall in the new adaptation. Meanwhile John Lithgow, acclaimed for roles in Blow Out, Shrek, and The Two Popes, is set to portray Dumbledore.
Amid reservations from ardent fans of the original movies and books, Lithgow has committed to delivering a strong performance. He said: "I will be following the great Michael Gambon. I'm not an Englishman, although I've played one on TV."
Lithgow also reminded audiences of his previous portrayal of an English figure on television. "I remind everyone that I did play Winston Churchill on The Crown and did just fine," he added.
"But yes, I mean, it's an enormous thrill. But I know there were plenty of people appalled that an American should be hired to play the ultimate English wizard. But, I will do my best."
And plenty of fans agree Lithgow is perfect for the role. One commented: "Anyone 'appalled' at John Lithgow being cast as anything or anyone needs their head looked at – he is one of his generation's best actors. I am absolutely certain he will excel and win over doubters with ease."
A different individual remarked: "I thought he did great as Churchill and is an accomplished actor. I'm excited about all the casting and look forward to the series. For me it comes down to three things; acting, directing, and writing.
"Remember when people said Daniel Radcliffe would be the worst Harry Potter since they couldn't get his eye color right? I don't hear the complaints now."
For some, however, the contention wasn't about an American joining a much-loved UK series but concerned author JK Rowling's views.
The writer has been criticised lately for her comments on the transgender community. One comment read: "I don't respect anyone who is still engaging with Harry Potter."
Another weighed in: "I mean, you can - through used books and DVDs. One of the great things about physical media is that you can cut terrible creators out of the income chain. But yeah, she's never getting another penny from me."
A third person commented: "The online bubble is very very small. I have people in my life who have no idea about any of it because it's not on the news/in newspapers. Most people in the world aren't on Twitter."