Warner Bros. is keeping things hush-hush when it comes to who will play Lord Voldemort in the upcoming “Harry Potter” series reboot. We, here at EntertainmentNow, previously reported that “the iconic role of Voldemort has been filled, yet the actor’s name will remain a mystery until the series premieres in 2027.” Yep, they’ve cast He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named… but won’t name him. It’s the kind of tease that’s got fans spinning wild (and wildly creative) theories.
And let’s be real: Ralph Fiennes is surely a difficult act to have to follow. Fiennes made Voldemort chilling, terrifying, and strangely mesmerizing. So naturally, fans are buzzing about who could possibly step into those shoes (or, more accurately, those serpentine robes) and bring fresh darkness to the role.
Throwing Out All the Theories
Over on the r/HarryPotteronHBO subreddit, many loyal “Potter” fans are sharing their perfect Voldemort picks like it’s a Hogwarts house sorting for villains. Some are pushing hard for Loki himself. “[Tom] Hiddleston for me. He has a creep inside of him,” said one fan, clearly sold on that eerie calm and menacing stare.
Getty (Joe Maher)Another name getting surprising love? Damian Lewis. A viewer even commented, “Damian Lewis as Lord Voldemort is a fancast I’ve never seen be suggested before and I really like it and think that could be really interesting and great,” making a strong case for a fresh twist.
Getty (Monica Schipper)Paul Bettany also popped up with a simple but strong case. One Redditor noted, “Paul Bettany would be so perfect.” Pointing to his knack for mixing warmth with chilling intensity.
Getty (Dimitrios Kambouris)There’s also a practical complaint some fans are hoping the reboot fixes. “[Cillian Murphy] would be perfect, just too short IMO… I pictured [Voldemort] significantly taller in the books,” one fan lamented. Murphy’s got the intensity, no question; but maybe not the height fans think Voldemort should.
Getty (David Swanson / AFP)Matt Smith’s name? Still in the running. “I think Matt Smith would be an amazing Voldemort,” said another enthusiast.
Getty (John Phillips)And of course, Benedict Cumberbatch is many fans’ top pick. “Benedict Cumberbatch is the only logical choice for me,” commented one devoted fan. Perhaps because of his sharp features and villain chops.
Getty (Pascal Le Segretain)Even some unconventional names made the list. “It’s outside the box, but I think Alan Tudyk would be fantastic. His role in Dollhouse was absolutely chilling,” shared one creative viewer.
Getty (Alberto E. Rodriguez for Disney)Or as another fan suggested, “Mark Strong would do well I believe, I like the bad guys he has played.”
Getty (Frazer Harrison)Could an Unknown Steal the Show?
As exciting as all these choices are, some fans want the series to take a risk. “I wouldn’t mind seeing relative unknowns get the roles. Being in an HBO-produced Harry Potter series could be career-making,” said one hopeful fan. And honestly, they’re not wrong. After all, that’s how Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, and many of the movie crew got their starts. The right fresh face could bring new energy and mystery to the character. And maybe even shake up the whole wizarding world.
So while the casting mystery continues, one thing’s for sure: Voldemort’s return is going to be dark, twisted, and very fun to watch.
The new “Harry Potter” series is due to release in a few years. But for many 2027 can’t come soon enough.
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Who Should Have Been Cast as Voldemort? ‘Harry Potter’ Fans Have Thoughts About Reboot [Photos]