Key Highlights
- New cast members are joining the wizarding world for the full-cast audio editions of Harry Potter.
- Familiar faces like Bill Nighy and David Holmes return to voice their original roles.
- Millie Gubby will play Luna Lovegood, and Jude Farrant and Maximus Evans will continue as Draco Malfoy and Neville Longbottom respectively.
- The first audiobook, “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone,” is set to debut on Audible on 4th November.
New Cast Members for Harry Potter Audiobooks
Hot on the heels of Pottermore and Audible’s previous casting announcements, a new wave of talent is joining the wizarding world family. The renowned platform has released details of the cast members who will bring the beloved characters to life in the full-cast audiobook editions of J.K. Rowling‘s Harry Potter series.
Familiar Faces Return
Notable among these new additions are a few familiar faces who return to their original roles. Bill Nighy, who played the role of Rufus Scrimgeour in the film adaptations, will now take on Professor Slughorn. David Holmes, who was a lead stunt double in the films, will voice Stan Shunpike. These returns add an extra layer of authenticity and nostalgia to the audio experience.
New Voices for Old Faces
Other new voices will bring to life some of the most iconic characters from the Harry Potter universe. Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù, known for his roles in various films and TV series, will voice Sirius Black. Anna Maxwell Martin will play Rita Skeeter, while Mackenzie Crook will take on Kreacher. Stephen Mangan will narrate the character of Nearly Headless Nick, and Tracy-Ann Oberman will portray Madam Hooch.
Hogwarts Students Joining the Cast
A few new Hogwarts students have been sent their letters, with Millie Gubby set to play Luna Lovegood. Jude Farrant and Maximus Evans will continue as Draco Malfoy in audiobooks one through three, before handing over the role for the final four audiobooks. Similarly, Jake Sigsworth and Archie Mountain will take on Neville Longbottom for the first three audiobooks, with the latter continuing his role for the remaining books.
Renowned Cast Members Return
Fellow Harry Potter star David Holmes expressed his excitement about returning to the wizarding world. “I’m beyond thrilled and honoured to be voicing Stan Shunpike in the forthcoming Pottermore and Audible Harry Potter full-cast audiobook,” he said, reflecting on how this is a ‘full circle’ moment for him.
Bill Nighy echoed similar sentiments, stating his gratitude at having the opportunity to be part of something meaningful for the next generation of Harry Potter fans. “I was pleased to be asked to play the professor after having already played a Minister for Magic,” he said. “Is it possible that I’m the only actor who can claim that achievement? It means that my career continues to have meaning for the next couple of generations.”
Full-Cast Audiobook Series
The first audiobook in the series, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone, will debut on Audible on 4th November. Fans can expect monthly drops of future instalments thereafter. The full-cast audiobook series includes a star-studded cast including Hugh Laurie as Albus Dumbledore, Matthew Macfadyen as Lord Voldemort, Riz Ahmed as Professor Snape, Michelle Gomez as Professor McGonagall, Mark Addy as Hagrid, Alex Hassell as Lucius Malfoy, Daniel Mays as Dobby, and Sara and Avni Deshmukh as The Patil Twins.
Other notable additions to the cast include Kit Harington as Professor Lockhart; Keira Knightley as Professor Umbridge; Iwan Rheon as Professor Lupin; Ruth Wilson as Bellatrix Lestrange; Ambika Mod as Nymphadora Tonks; Leo Woodall as Bill Weasley; Simon Pegg (fresh from his work on Hogwarts Legacy) as Arthur Weasley; James McAvoy as Mad-Eye Moody; Gemma Whelan as Professor Sprout; and Matt Berry as Sir Cadogan.
Cush Jumbo will serve as the narrator for the entire series.
With these casting announcements, fans can look forward to a rich audio experience that captures the magic of Harry Potter. The debut of the first audiobook marks the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey through the wizarding world, bringing back cherished memories and introducing new listeners to the wonders of J.K. Rowling’s creation.
Conclusion
The casting for the full-cast audio editions of Harry Potter is not only a testament to the enduring popularity of the series but also an opportunity for both returning actors and newcomers to delve into the wizarding world once again. As fans eagerly await the release, the anticipation builds around what these talented voices will bring to the beloved characters.
