Since the first film’s release more than two decades ago, millions of people have fallen in love with the Harry Potter universe.
From 2001 to 2011, J.K. Rowling’s popular book series brought the magical world to life on the big screen, with each film captivating fans with fascinating storylines and unforgettable performances.
However, as time passes, we’ve had to say goodbye to countless performers who played iconic characters in the Harry Potter films.
This article honors 26 actors that helped make Harry Potter a cultural phenomenon. Potterheads everywhere will forever remember their contributions to this wondrous world and carry their legacies in their hearts.
Richard Harris (Albus Dumbledore)
Richard Harris, who played the original Albus Dumbledore in the first two Harry Potter films, established the character as the adored Hogwarts headmaster. Harris added warmth, wisdom, and gravitas to the character. His death in October 2002, after battling Hodgkin’s disease, stunned admirers. He was 72. The shift to Michael Gambon was easy, but Harris’ portrayal had an indelible impact on the franchise.
Michael Gambon (Albus Dumbledore)
Following Harris’ unexpected death, Michael Gambon assumed the role of Albus Dumbledore, from “Prisoner of Azkaban” onward. He added his own distinct energy to the part, making Dumbledore both amusing and forceful. Gambon died in September 2023, aged 82, from pneumonia. His relatives said he died quietly, with his wife and son by his side.
Alan Rickman (Severus Snape)
Alan Rickman’s portrayal of Severus Snape is one of the most memorable performances in the Harry Potter franchise. Snape’s cold, calculating appearance, combined with a hidden depth of emotion, created a complicated character whom fans adored. Rickman died in January 2016 following a private battle with pancreatic c@ncer. His passing at the age of 69 rocked the world, with both fans and co-stars expressing their heartfelt sadness.
Robbie Coltrane (Rubeus Hagrid)
Robbie Coltrane, who played the lovable half-giant Hagrid, was a fan favorite. His portrayal of Hagrid added warmth, humor, and heart to the movie. The towering figure with a sympathetic spot for magical creatures served as both Harry Potter’s guardian and companion. Coltrane died in October 2022 at the age of 72, from multiple organ failure.
Maggie Smith (Minerva McGonagall)
Dame Maggie Smith’s portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall was strong, protective, and memorable. She appeared in all eight Harry Potter films, becoming an integral part of the franchise. Smith, known for her flawless acting career that spanned decades, died in September 2024 at the age of 89. Her family issued a heartfelt statement, writing, “An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end.”
Richard Griffiths (Vernon Dursley)
Richard Griffiths, who played Harry’s harsh and inattentive Uncle Vernon, was no stranger to portraying over-the-top characters. His role in the Harry Potter series was remarkable because he personified the Dursleys’ scornful attitude. Griffiths died in March 2013 at the age of 65 from complications following heart surgery. After his death, “About Time” released his final film role.
John Hurt (Garrick Ollivander)
In “The Philosopher’s Stone”, “Deathly Hallows”, and “Goblet of Fire”, John Hurt portrayed Garrick Ollivander, a clever and secretive wandmaker. Hurt’s ability to command the screen in even modest roles revealed his extraordinary talent. He died in January 2017 at the age of 77 from pancreatic c@ncer.
Helen McCrory (Narcissa Malfoy)
Helen McCrory played the austere and protective Narcissa Malfoy, Draco’s mother, in the later films. Off-screen, McCrory was a major actor, well remembered for her parts in “Peaky Blinders” and “The Queen”. McCrory died in April 2021 at the age of 52, after a battle with breast c@ncer. Her husband, actor Damian Lewis, broke the devastating news via Twitter.
Robert Knox (Marcus Belby)
Robert Knox, who played Marcus Belby in “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”, was just 18 years old when he passed so tragically. In May 2008, a fatal stabbing occurred while he was defending his brother during a quarrel outside a London club. Knox’s death upset the Harry Potter community because he had already agreed to appear in future films before his unexpected death.
Verne Troyer (Griphook)
Verne Troyer, known for his appearances as Griphook in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” and Mini-Me in the “Austin Powers” series, brought both humor and seriousness to his performances. Troyer died in April 2018, at the age of 49. His death was considered a suicide due to alcohol intoxication.
Roger Lloyd Pack (Barty Crouch Sr.)
Roger Lloyd Pack, best known for his work in “Only Fools and Horses” and “The Vicar of Dibley,” as Barty Crouch Sr. in “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.” Pack died in January 2014, following a fight with pancreatic c@ncer.
David Ryall, Peter Cartwright (Elphias Doge)
Two actors played Elphias Doge, a close friend of Dumbledore and member of the Order of the Phoenix, throughout the trilogy. Peter Cartwright, who initially played Doge in “Order of the Phoenix”, died in 2013. David Ryall took over the role in “Deathly Hallows: Part 1” and died one year later on Christmas Day 2014.
Timothy Bateson (The Voice of Kreacher)
In “Order of the Phoenix”, Timothy Bateson portrayed the grumpy house elf Kreacher. His death in 2009, at the age of 83, marked the end of a British acting icon.
Dave Legeno (Fenrir Greyback)
Dave Legeno, best known for portraying the fearsome werewolf Fenrir Greyback, died unexpectedly in July 2014. Hikers found his body in California’s Death Valley, concluding that he succumbed to heatstroke.
Robert Hardy (Cornelius Fudge)
Robert Hardy, who played the clumsy Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge, in four Harry Potter films, died in August 2017 at the age of 91.
Elizabeth Spriggs (Fat Lady)
Elizabeth Spriggs, noted for her role as the picture guarding the entrance to the Gryffindor common room, died in July 2008 at the age of 78. Her performance in “The Philosopher’s Stone” became memorable.
Alfred Burke (Armando Dippet)
Alfred Burke’s performance as Armando Dippet, Hogwarts’ former headmaster, in “Chamber of Secrets” was a minor but notable role. Burke died in February 2011, at the age of 92.
Paul Ritter (Eldred Worple)
Paul Ritter, who played Eldred Worple in “Half-Blood Prince”, died in April 2021 after a struggle with a brain tumor. He was 54.
Terence Bayler (Bloody Baron)
Terence Bayler, who played the mischievous spirit known as The Bloody Baron in “The Philosopher’s Stone”, died in August 2016 at the age of 86.
Sam Beazley (Professor Everard)
Sam Beazley, who played the picture of former Hogwarts headmaster Professor Everard in “Order of the Phoenix”, died in June 2017 at the incredible age of 101.
Derek Deadman (Tom, the Leaky Cauldron)
Derek Deadman, who played the landlord of The Leaky Cauldron in “Philosopher’s Stone”, died in November 2014 at the age of 74 due to diabetes complications.
Hazel Douglas (Bathilda Bagshot)
Leslie Phillips (The Voice of The Sorting Hat)
Leslie Phillips portrayed the iconic Sorting Hat in several Harry Potter films. He died in November 2022 at the age of 98, following a long and successful career.
Paul Grant (Goblin)
Paul Grant, who played a goblin in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”, died in March 2023, aged 56, after collapsing outside King’s Cross Station in London.
Jimmy Gardner (Ernie Prang)
Jimmy Gardner, who played the quirky Knight Bus driver Ernie Prang, died in May 2010, at the age of 85. Gardner, a WWII soldier, had a decades-long acting career.
Feature Image Credit: (WARNER BROS)
