An interesting rumor about HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series has caught the attention of fans: the Dark Lord himself, Lord Voldemort, could be played by a woman.
In September, entertainment insider Daniel Richtman reported that auditions for the role may include both men and women. The speculation has provoked strong reactions online among Harry Potter fans, with opinions ranging from curiosity to anger.
Some fans argue that a female Voldemort would alter a character long established in the films and books, while others are open to seeing a different interpretation of the Dark Lord. A number of fan-made images circulating on social media depict Cynthia Erivo (Wicked) and Tilda Swinton (Doctor Strange, Avengers: Endgame) as potential candidates, illustrating the interest in a “gender-swapped” take. But some remain indifferent, either dismissing the rumor or expressing that it will not change their expectations of the series.
The HBO reboot has already drawn attention for other casting choices. While the likes of John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter align closely with both their wizarding world counterparts and original portrayals, the casting of Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape marked a notable departure.
A female Voldemort would follow this pattern of unexpected choices.
Related: Tom Hiddleston Leads Predictions To Play Voldemort in HBO’s ‘Harry Potter’ Series : Disney Fanatic
Filming is now underway in the U.K.. Season 1 will premiere in 2027.
The Harry Potter TV series is written and executive-produced by showrunner Francesca Gardiner (HBO’s Succession, His Dark Materials, Killing Eve). J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, and Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman of Heyday Films are also onboard as executive producers. Mark Mylod (Succession, Game of Thrones, The Last of Us) will executive-produce and direct multiple episodes.
Would you like to see a female Lord Voldemort, or do you think the idea is riddikulus? Let us know your thoughts in the comments down below!
