The son of the original Dumbledore, Jared Harris, wonders why they need a Harry Potter series

September 24, 2024, 12:41 p.m.

Jared Harris, the son of Richard Harris, who played the original Dumbledore in Harry Potter, said JK Rowling's book series does not need another television adaptation, adding that he would not turn down the opportunity to follow in his father's footsteps and take on the role of the legendary bearded wizard.

The “Chernobyl” actor made these comments during an interview with The Independent when asked if he would be open to playing his father’s role.

“No thanks,” Harris replied, questioning the point of another show in the Harry Potter universe. “And I mean, why would you do that? I don't understand it. The films were fantastic – leave them alone.”

Although he is not a fan of continuing with the series, he shared that it will contain “a lot of storytelling” that the “Harry Potter films” lacked.

Richard gave fans their first version of Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. After his death in October 2002, the role was given to Michael Gambon, who played him in subsequent films. Gambon dies in September 2023.

The new “Harry Potter” series is the latest TV series in Rowling's franchise after “Fantastic Beasts: Dumbledore's Secrets”. The title of the new series has not yet been announced, but Rowling is set to serve as executive producer and the release is planned for 2026.