Ralph Fiennes Says He Won’t Return as Voldemort in HBO’s Harry Potter Series

Ralph Fiennes has said he does not expect to return as Lord Voldemort in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter television series, despite previously expressing interest in reprising the role.

Speaking on The Claudia Winkleman Show, Fiennes explained that he had been approached by HBO several years ago about the possibility of returning. At the time, he was open to it, but after not hearing anything further, he believes the opportunity has passed. He said, “I remember being asked the question… ‘Would I reprise the part?’ and I said, ‘Yes, I’d love to.’ But then nothing’s happened, and I think that ship has sailed.”

Fiennes also addressed ongoing casting speculation and offered his own suggestion for the role. He endorsed Tilda Swinton, calling the idea of her playing Voldemort “fantastic” and adding that she would be “amazing” in the part.

HBO has not yet announced who will play Voldemort in the series, which is scheduled to premiere in December 2026. However, several key roles for the first season have already been confirmed. Dominic McLaughlin will play Harry Potter, with Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley and Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger. John Lithgow has been cast as Albus Dumbledore, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, and Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy.

The discussion around Swinton reflects broader reports that HBO may be considering a more unconventional approach to casting Voldemort, including auditioning both male and female actors. The goal is reportedly to create a more “otherworldly” version of the character. Swinton, known for her roles in films such as Constantine and Doctor Strange, has frequently portrayed characters with an ethereal or ambiguous presence, which has led some fans to support the idea.

Voldemort’s role in the first season is expected to be limited, as the character only appears briefly in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, mainly as a presence attached to Professor Quirrell. As a result, HBO may delay announcing the casting decision until closer to the show’s release.