Actors of the Harry Potter Film — All Famous Stars and Roles in the Popular Franchise

It's hard to find a franchise that could compete with the story of Harry Potter. After all, it's a kind of classic. 

If we break down Harry Potter and all the actors, we can now see many respected stars who, at the time of filming, were young and just starting out. Overall, all the actors in the Harry Potter film received a lucky ticket to a good future.

Actors of the Film "Harry Potter"

The "Harry Potter" franchise is not just a series of films, but a cultural phenomenon that has left a deep mark on global pop culture. Eight films were made based on the novels by British author J.K. Rowling, becoming cult classics for both children and adults. They not only gifted us a magical world of magic, Hogwarts adventures, duels, and deep moral themes, but also introduced the public to a whole array of actors now forever associated with beloved characters.

Each role in "Harry Potter" was well cast: from the main trio — Harry, Ron, and Hermione — to secondary but memorable characters like Hagrid, Snape, or Dumbledore. The actors grew up alongside their characters on screen, and audiences matured with them. Some of these actors were already known, while others gained worldwide fame thanks to their participation in this franchise.

The Harry Potter films became a launching pad for young actors and simultaneously brought together the best British theatrical and film actors into one cinematic project. This synergy made each film exceptional not only for its plot but also for its performances. Most performers depicted their characters so successfully that viewers still cannot imagine anyone else in their place.

Daniel Radcliffe — Harry Potter

Daniel Radcliffe got the role of Harry Potter when he was just 11 years old. At that time, the boy already had some acting experience, but it was this project that made him a star of global scale. For ten years, Daniel portrayed on screen the story of the boy who survived, transforming from a child into a true hero.

His acting became deeper with each film — from a confused first-year student to a strong, decisive leader. Behind him were scars, losses, and trials, but thanks to Radcliffe, we believed in Harry as a living person.

After the saga ended, the actor actively worked in theater and film, choosing diverse and often experimental roles. In particular, he can be seen in the films "The Woman in Black," "Swiss Army Man," and "Escape from Pretoria." He deliberately avoids roles similar to Potter, trying to step out of the shadow of his great role.

Emma Watson — Hermione Granger

Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger, became a symbol of the smart, independent, brave girl. Hermione is not just Harry and Ron's friend, but a key figure who repeatedly saved the heroes from danger.

Emma amazingly handled the role even from a young age — she perfectly conveyed the character of the heroine, her stubbornness, curiosity, and genuine kindness. Although sometimes Hermione was considered a "nerd," over time everyone realized that she is the real brains of the team.

After the Potter franchise, Watson became not only an actress but also a UN ambassador, advocating for women's rights and gender equality. She starred in films such as "Beauty and the Beast," "The Perks of Being a Wallflower," and "Little Women," each time demonstrating profound acting sensitivity.

Rupert Grint — Ron Weasley

The role of Ron Weasley went to Rupert Grint, who impressed casting directors with his humor and charisma at a young age. Ron is a cheerful, loyal friend, often insecure but always ready for adventure. Thanks to Grint, he became a favorite of millions.

His acting brings sincerity and humanity to Ron. Viewers loved this character for his ordinariness, vivid emotions, jealousy, comicality, and limitless devotion to friends.

After the films ended, Rupert focused on independent cinema and theater projects, starring in M. Night Shyamalan's series "Servant." He also became a father in 2020 and opened his own Instagram, gaining over a million followers on the first day.

Robbie Coltrane — Rubeus Hagrid

Rubeus Hagrid, the kind giant, won the hearts of viewers from his very first appearance on screen. This role was played by Robbie Coltrane, a British actor with significant experience. He perfectly embodied the image of a man with a big heart, love for magical creatures, and childlike naivety.

Hagrid is a symbol of warmth and loyalty. Though he may appear intimidating at first glance, he is truly one of the kindest heroes in the film. Coltrane infused this character with a soul, earning him eternal love from fans.

Unfortunately, Robbie Coltrane passed away in 2022, and his death was a great loss for fans of the franchise. However, his Hagrid will forever remain in our hearts.

Michael Gambon — Albus Dumbledore (from the third film)

After Richard Harris's death, the role of Albus Dumbledore passed to Michael Gambon, a renowned British theater actor. His version of Hogwarts' headmaster was more dynamic, emotional, and even strict than in the first two films.

Gambon created an image of Dumbledore as a wise yet ambiguous character, who sometimes makes mistakes but always strives to protect the world from darkness. Particularly strong were the scenes in the final parts where Dumbledore confronts death and his own shadows from the past.

Michael Gambon passed away in 2023, leaving behind a brilliant legacy in British cinema and theater.

Richard Harris — Albus Dumbledore (1-2 films)

The first Dumbledore was Richard Harris, a legendary actor whose interpretation of the character was calm, wise, and even somewhat magical. His Dumbledore is a classic mentor teacher, kind and mysterious.

Harris brought a special spirit to the films that conveyed the atmosphere of the first two parts — more fairy-tale-like, innocent, and childlike. His death in 2002 was a major loss for the film industry.

Alan Rickman — Severus Snape

Severus Snape is one of the most complex and interesting characters in the franchise. Alan Rickman embodied him with a mastery that still impresses. Snape is a strict, silent, often unfriendly teacher, but in the end, he turned out to be a true hero.

Rickman's performance was restrained, refined, and deep. With just a look, he could convey the entire spectrum of emotions — from hatred to love, from pain to selflessness. The role of Snape became the culmination of his career.

After Rickman's death in 2016, fans worldwide expressed their respect and gratitude. His Snape will forever be remembered in film history.

Maggie Smith — Minerva McGonagall

Maggie Smith is one of the most respected British actresses, and her role as Professor Minerva McGonagall is a true gem of the franchise. Her character is a strict yet fair Transfiguration teacher, the defender of Gryffindor, who always stood on the side of good. Maggie portrayed her with elegant restraint, irony, and nobility.

McGonagall is an example of a strong female figure in the world of magic. She doesn't yell or use harsh methods, but everyone respects her — even those belonging to Slytherin. Her final scene in the last film, where she animates Hogwarts knights to defend the castle, is one of the most powerful in the saga.

Tom Felton — Draco Malfoy

Tom Felton brilliantly played the role of Draco Malfoy, Harry Potter's antagonist at school. At first, Draco seems like a typical bully — smug, arrogant, self-assured. But with each film, it becomes clear that behind this mask lies an inner conflict, parental pressure, fear, and doubts.

Tom was able to show Draco's transformation — from an arrogant schoolboy to a young man who can't fully accept the dark side. Particularly touching is his line in the last parts, where he is torn between duty and conscience.

After "Harry Potter," Tom continued his career in film and music, actively engaging with fans on social media, where he often shares memories from the set.

Ralph Fiennes — Voldemort

Ralph Fiennes embodied the image of the most terrifying antagonist of the franchise — Lord Voldemort. His appearance on screen is always accompanied by tension, fear, and coldness. Voldemort is not just a villain; he is the embodiment of absolute evil that destroys everything in its path.

Fiennes managed to give him depth: we see that Voldemort was once an orphan named Tom Riddle, who chose the dark path out of fear and hatred for human weaknesses. Ralph portrayed him not only as a monster but as a tragedy of irreversible choice.

His voice, gestures, and glances — everything in this role is impeccable. Fiennes is one of the most powerful actors of his generation, and his Voldemort will remain in film history.

Gary Oldman — Sirius Black

Sirius Black, Harry's godfather, is a character that evokes many emotions. He was played by Gary Oldman, a legendary actor who added depth, warmth, and inner tension to the role. Sirius is a rebel, a free spirit, but a prisoner of circumstances.

His first appearance in "Prisoner of Azkaban" was a surprise — at first, we consider him a criminal, but then a different truth emerges. Oldman brilliantly showed how Sirius struggles with the pain of loss and tries to regain his place in Harry's life.

Sirius's death is one of the most painful scenes in the saga. Oldman made this role memorable, and his Sirius will forever remain a symbol of love that never had the chance to flourish.

Helena Bonham Carter — Bellatrix Lestrange

Bellatrix Lestrange, a follower of Voldemort, is one of the scariest yet most charismatic villains in the franchise. She was played by Helena Bonham Carter, known for her eccentric roles.

Helena created an image that is both frightening and captivating. Bellatrix is fanatical, unpredictable, and cruel, yet full of energy and obsession. Her scene in "Order of the Phoenix," where she kills Sirius, is one of the most shocking moments.

This role perfectly demonstrates Bonham Carter's acting skills. She made viewers hate and fear, while simultaneously unable to look away from Bellatrix.

Matthew Lewis — Neville Longbottom

Matthew Lewis began his journey in the franchise as the actor for Neville Longbottom — an insecure, confused student who constantly gets everything mixed up. But over time, Neville grew into a hero who bravely confronts Voldemort and destroys one of the Horcruxes.

Matthew was able to convey the hero's gradual transformation very organically. In "Deathly Hallows," his Neville is now a strong, decisive individual who is not afraid to stand against evil even in the darkest hour.

After the films, Lewis became an unexpected star of social media due to his "transformed" appearance. He continues to act, particularly in series and theatrical productions.

Imelda Staunton — Dolores Umbridge

Dolores Umbridge, a character whom most fans consider even worse than Voldemort, was played by Imelda Staunton. Her character embodies bureaucratic evil: she smiles, drinks tea with kittens on her cups, but inflicts torture and destroys everything human.

Staunton conveyed Umbridge's "sweet cruelty" so truthfully that viewers physically felt disgust towards the character. This is the genius of her acting.

Interestingly, in real life, Imelda is an open and witty woman who later played Queen Elizabeth II in "The Crown."

Bonnie Wright — Ginny Weasley

Bonnie Wright played the role of Ginny Weasley, Ron's younger sister and future wife of Harry. At first, her character was secondary, but over time Ginny evolved into a strong, brave, and independent girl who participated in all the important battles.

Bonnie brilliantly showcased the evolution of her heroine — from a shy girl to a confident witch. Her scenes in "Order of the Phoenix" and "Half-Blood Prince" were a delightful surprise for viewers — a new heroine appeared in the franchise, who does not overshadow others but has her own character and path.

After filming wrapped up, Bonnie focused more on directing and activism, especially in environmental protection.