A ‘Harry Potter’ Film Star Returns for Broadway’s ‘Cursed Child’

Tom Felton is making Harry Potter history by becoming the first actor from the film franchise to reprise his iconic role in the stage production of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.” The 37-year-old British actor will return as Draco Malfoy for a 19-week Broadway engagement beginning November 11, 2025, and running through March 22, 2026, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

This marks Felton’s Broadway debut and represents a remarkable turn of events for both the actor and his character. The timing couldn’t be more perfect—Felton will be exactly the same age as adult Draco when he begins performances at the Lyric Theatre in New York City.

“Being a part of the Harry Potter films has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Felton shared in his announcement, as reported by the outlet. “Joining this production will be a full-circle moment for me, because when I begin performances in Cursed Child this fall, I’ll also be the exact age Draco is in the play. It’s surreal to be stepping back into his shoes – and of course his iconic platinum blond hair – and I am thrilled to be able to see his story through and to share it with the greatest fan community in the world.”

A Character’s Evolution From Screen to Stage

The casting represents more than nostalgic appeal—it showcases Draco’s character development from schoolyard antagonist to complex adult. Set 19 years after the original Harry Potter series concludes, “Cursed Child” presents Draco as a father navigating parenthood alongside former rivals Harry, Ron, and Hermione as they all send their children to Hogwarts.

Producers Sonia Friedman and Colin Callender emphasized the significance of Felton’s return in their joint statement. They described how Draco’s character arc has evolved “beyond the choices one was raised to make,” highlighting themes of “parental pressure, internal conflict, and reluctant vulnerability,” according to West End Theatre.

The producers expressed excitement about offering fans “the once-in-a-lifetime excitement of seeing him reprise this iconic role, this time on-stage in New York City.” They noted how this casting “bridges generations of fans and breathes new life into a beloved story.”

Broadway Debut for a Seasoned Stage Actor

While this marks Felton’s Broadway debut, he brings substantial theater experience to the role. His stage credits include starring in “2:22 A Ghost Story” in London’s West End in 2022 and leading “A Child of Science” at Bristol Old Vic in 2024.

The Broadway production has undergone significant changes since its 2018 opening. Originally presented as a two-part experience lasting over five hours, the show has been streamlined into a single three-hour performance, making it more accessible to audiences.

Felton’s recent film work includes “They Will Kill You,” alongside Zazie Beetz and Patricia Arquette, and “Fackham Hall” with Thomasin MacKenzie and Damian Lewis. His return to the wizarding world represents a homecoming that fans have eagerly anticipated since the play’s debut.

The Broadway production continues its successful run at the Lyric Theatre. The London version at the Palace Theatre has extended bookings through February 2026 after welcoming its two millionth visitor, West End Theatre reports.