Harry Potter fans overjoyed as British comedy star ‘lined up’ for Hagrid role amid HBO TV series casting controversy
British actor-comedian Nick Frost is reportedly nearing a deal to play Rubeus Hagrid in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter television series.
The Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz star would step into the enormous boots once worn by the late Robbie Coltrane, who portrayed the beloved half-giant across all eight films in the original Warner Bros franchise.
Frost, known for his roles in Edgar Wright’s comedic Cornetto trilogy, recently posted a cryptic message on Instagram saying: “What a bloody lovely day! It’s happening, it’s actually happening. Stay cool.”
HBO has declined to confirm the casting news.
“We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation,” a spokesperson for HBO said in a statement. “As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalise deals.”
The news of Frost’s potential involvement was first reported by Deadline.
Hagrid is a key figure across all seven books in JK Rowling’s Harry Potter series, first appearing to inform the 11-year-old protagonist that he is a wizard before taking him to Hogwarts.
The character was played by Robbie Coltrane in the original film franchise, who appeared in all eight instalments before his death in 2022 at the age of 72.
If cast, Frost would join an already high-profile ensemble for the HBO adaptation, although it’s not been immune to controversy.
John Lithgow has reportedly been cast as Professor Dumbledore, the wise headmaster of Hogwarts.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Harry Potter film actor defends TV remake after JK Rowling trans row backlash sparks boycott fears – EXCLUSIVE Harry Potter fans fume at ‘race-washing’ as HBO ‘closing in’ on actor to play SnapeHarry Potter outrage as US actor poised to play Dumbledore in TV series: ‘Should be BRITISH!’
His casting sparked a fierce debate among Harry Potter fanatics due to the fact he’s American, but he isn’t the only star to come under fire.
Paapa Essiedu is poised to join the TV adaptation as Severus Snape, the complex potions master, although bosses faced backlash for “race-swapping” the character following its original portrayal by Alan Rickman.
Janet McTeer is also rumoured to be taking on the role of Professor McGonagall.
None of these castings have been officially confirmed by HBO as the network continues to finalise deals with the actors.
However, after the Frost rumours emerged, fans were almost unanimous as they flooded social media with their overjoyed reactions.
Reacting to Discussing Film’s post about the casting, one fan penned on X: “The first and only casting decision that makes sense to me for the show so far. Lithgow is a solid pick too, but have to see more to be sure.”
“Might be the best casting yet I’m still massively skeptical about remaking Harry Potter,” added a second before a third weighed in: “If this happens, the casting department deserves a raise.”
“Yes, if there is anyone who fits for the show, he truly fits the bill. I love Nick Frost in Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz,” another echoed before a fifth said: “Now that makes sense.” (sic)
Frost, 53, has built a successful career in British comedy, most notably through his collaborations with Simon Pegg.
The pair starred together in the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy of films directed by Edgar Wright: Shaun of the Dead (2004), Hot Fuzz (2007), and The World’s End (2013).
Frost also co-wrote and starred in the 2011 film Paul alongside Pegg.
His television work includes the cult comedy series Spaced and paranormal comedy horror series Truth Seekers.
Most recently, Frost lent his voice to the character SM 33 in a Star Wars series.
He is also set to appear in the upcoming live-action How to Train Your Dragon film as Gobber the Belch.
Production on the TV adaptation of JK Rowling’s beloved book series is scheduled to begin in summer 2025.
Filming will take place at Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden, where the eight original Harry Potter films were shot.
The series has drawn some concern from fans regarding Rowling’s role as executive producer given her controversial views.
HBO has previously stated that the author “has a right to express her personal views” and insisted that the show “will only benefit from her involvement.”
The adaptation is expected to span eight seasons, with each season covering one of the seven books in the series.