November 4, 2024: Ralph Fiennes, the actor who famously portrayed the dark wizard Voldemort in the Harry Potter films, has responded to rumors about Cillian Murphy potentially taking over the role of the Dark Lord in the upcoming HBO TV series based on J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter novels.
Speaking to People, Fiennes expressed his support for Murphy, calling him a “fantastic actor” and said, “That’s a wonderful suggestion. I would be all in favour of Cillian. Yeah.”
Fiennes made his first appearance as Voldemort in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005) and went on to portray the iconic villain in the following films, including Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007), Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009), and the two-part adaptation of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2010-2011). In November 2022, Fiennes confirmed that he would be willing to reprise his role as Voldemort if asked, indicating his ongoing affection for the character.
The news that HBO and Warner Bros. are planning a Harry Potter TV series was revealed in April 2023. The series is being written by Francesca Gardiner, with Mark Mylod set to direct. J.K. Rowling is also involved as an executive producer, despite controversy surrounding her past comments on trans issues. Fiennes, who has defended Rowling, remarked that the “verbal abuse directed at [Rowling] is disgusting” and criticized the response to her views. He stated, “J.K. Rowling has written these great books about empowerment, about young children finding themselves as human beings,” adding that her works are about “how you become a better, stronger, more morally centered human being.”
As for the TV series, casting details have yet to be confirmed. Cillian Murphy, currently filming The Immortal Man and recently awarded an Oscar for his role in Oppenheimer, has been rumored for the role of Voldemort following the TV adaptation announcement, but no official confirmation has been made.
Fiennes’ comments highlight both his respect for Murphy’s talent and his own continuing connection to the iconic role of Voldemort, making this a highly anticipated development for fans of the Harry Potter series. Fiennes’ latest film, The Return, will open in theatres on December 6.
