Game of Thrones star Kit Harington is officially heading to Hogwarts. The British actor has been tapped to play the vain, celebrity wizard Gilderoy Lockhart in the second season of HBO’s highly anticipated Harry Potter television series. He steps in for Nicholas Hoult, who recently exited the project due to scheduling conflicts.
Confirming the recast, HBO stated the swap was strictly schedule-related. For Harington, stepping into Lockhart’s extravagant robes feels like a natural transition. Having already voiced the arrogant Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher for an official audiobook, the actor expressed massive excitement about bringing his favourite childhood character to life on screen.
The upcoming adaptation promises a faithful, decade-long retelling of JK Rowling’s seven original novels. While season two will tackle ‘The Chamber of Secrets’, audiences will get their first look at the magical reboot when the debut season hits HBO Max this Christmas.
Harington joins a fresh ensemble featuring newcomers Dominic McLaughlin, Alastair Stout, and Arabella Stanton as the iconic golden trio. The supporting cast includes Oscar-nominated veteran Jon Lithgow as headmaster Albus Dumbledore and Nick Frost as the lovable gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid.
Source: Hollywood Reporter
