HBO Harry Potter reboot rumored to gender swap Voldemort with female version of dark wizard

A new rumor suggests that HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter television reboot may feature a surprising twist: a gender-swapped version of Lord Voldemort. According to industry scooper Daniel Richtman, via SFFGazette.com, auditions are reportedly open to both male and female actors for the role of the Dark Lord, raising speculation that the series could introduce “Lady Voldemort” or “She-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named.”

Ralph Fiennes’ chilling portrayal of Voldemort in the film series remains one of the franchise’s most memorable performances, and following in his footsteps will be a major challenge. Unlike the movies, where Fiennes didn’t appear until The Goblet of Fire, HBO’s adaptation of The Philosopher’s Stone is expected to introduce Voldemort early on through flashbacks of Harry’s parents’ deaths, as well as in the climax where the villain is attached to Professor Quirrell.

The rumor of a gender-swap has already sparked discussion online, with some seeing it as a bold way to differentiate the reboot from the films, while others view it as a potentially controversial decision, especially given author J.K. Rowling’s well-documented views on gender and identity.

Actor Cillian Murphy, recently speculated by fans as a possible Voldemort candidate, has dismissed the idea of joining the project. Speaking about the role, he remarked that Ralph Fiennes’ performance would be incredibly difficult to follow.

In addition to Voldemort, HBO’s reboot has announced much of its cast, including Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. Adult cast members include John Lithgow as Dumbledore and Janet McTeer as McGonagall.

The series, executive-produced by Francesca Gardiner and directed in part by Mark Mylod, is being developed in partnership with J.K. Rowling, Warner Bros. Television, and Brontë Film and TV. It is set to premiere on HBO in 2027.