Kit Harington has been announced as the new face of Hogwarts professor Gilderoy Lockhart in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV series, replacing the briefly‑cast Nicholas Hoult who exited the project because of scheduling conflicts.
Harington, best‑known for his role as Jon Snow in Game of Thrones and a supporting figure in the BBC drama Industry, says he’s a lifelong Potter fan and “this is a dream role.” He is the third actor to join the HBO series, following the departure of Hoult earlier this month.
A single HBO statement noted the change: “Kit Harington will be stepping into the role of Gilderoy Lockhart.” The announcement comes as the series begins its first season, covering the story of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, available on HBO Max this Christmas.
Looking ahead, the second season will adapt the Chamber of Secrets, the book that follows Harry in his second year at Hogwarts. Beyond the iconic hero, the new show will also feature Dominic McLaughlin as Harry, Alastair Stout as Ron and Arabella Stanton as Hermione. James Ivory’s Oscar‑nominated actor Jon Lithgow will play Headmaster Albus Dumbledore, while Nick Frost takes on the role of gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid.
Viewers will see Harington in the role of Lockhart, a character originally portrayed by Kenneth Branagh in the film series. Lockhart is known for his braggadocio and wand‑throwing antics, and his presence promises comic relief amid the unfolding wizarding drama.
With directors Mark Mylod, who previously helmed songs for the original series, on board as an executive producer along with J.K. Rowling, the production is positioned to mimic the feel of the beloved books. The series could take up to ten years to wrap up, covering each of the seven novels. Fans can expect this long‑term journey to deliver fresh storytelling for the labyrinthine world of Hogwarts.
