John Lithgow has confirmed he will play Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV series.

The 79-year-old confirmed the speculation was correct in an interview with Screen Rant.

“It came as a total surprise to me,” he told the publication. “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. But I’m very excited.”

He added: “I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”

While Lithgow is undoubtedly a talented and respected actor, many fans have taken issue with one major detail – he’s American, not British.

The Harry Potter universe has been celebrated for its distinctly British identity for years.

From its setting in the fictional Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to its cast filled with esteemed British actors, the franchise has always prided itself on authenticity.

This wasn’t by accident; J.K. Rowling famously insisted that the cast remain British when the original film series was in development, The Telegraph reports.

Even Hollywood giants like Steven Spielberg and Robin Williams were reportedly turned away due to this strict rule.

News of the actor’s casting has sent shockwaves through the fandom, with one person complaining: “Like how hard is it to find a British older actor? Is that too much to ask?”

“But he’s American… and very, very old,” another added.

In agreement, a third said: “Really? That doesn’t get me hyped.”

Somebody else fumed: “This has to be the absolute worst casting I could imagine for Dumbledore.”

It’s not just about nationality for fans, it’s also about preserving a legacy.

Richard Harris and Michael Gambon, both of whom played Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in the original films, were not just talented actors; they were emblematic of the series’ British charm.

Their performances helped solidify Dumbledore as a wise, enigmatic, and deeply rooted figure in Hogwarts’ magical history.

You may know John Lithgow from his voice acting as Lord Farquaad in Shrek, his appearance in Daddy’s Home 2, or his role in the hit series Dexter.

News of the American actor’s casting has sparked a wave of disappointment among fans, who feel this decision strays too far from the franchise’s roots.

Of course, some fans are willing to give Lithgow a chance, as one person enthuses: “He is perfect for the part. It would be a great casting move.”

After all, the actor has already proven that he can handle British roles, most notably playing Winston Churchill in The Crown, a performance that earned him an Emmy and a BAFTA nomination.

So his acting chops and ability to master an accent will likely be scrutinized heavily by Harry Potter purists.

There’s also the question of whether Lithgow will be able to commit to the role long-term.

The new Harry Potter series is expected to run for a decade, and at 79 years old, Lithgow would be almost pushing 90 by the time the show wraps.

Despite the backlash, HBO is yet to officially confirm Lithgow’s casting, stating that they will only announce details once deals are finalized.