Did Ralph Fiennes Just Reveal Who's Playing Voldemort in the New 'Harry Potter' Series?

Ralph Fiennes, the actor who brought Lord Voldemort to life in the original 'Harry Potter' film franchise, has set the wizarding world abuzz with speculation after seemingly revealing who will play the infamous Dark Lord in the new HBO 'Harry Potter' series. Fiennes seemed to imply that 'Peaky Blinders' star Cillian Murphy has already been casted as Voldemort during a January 2026 red carpet interview for his most recent movie, '28 Years then: The Bone Temple.'

However, he then changed his mind after learning that the information might not yet be known. Although Voldemort's actor has not yet been formally revealed by the series' creators, the interaction rekindled a great deal of fan interest and discussion.  

Fiennes' Comment Sparks Frenzy and Fan Buzz

When Fiennes was asked on the red carpet who he believed should "fill his shoes" as Voldemort in the eagerly awaited HBO adaptation, it was the moment that sent 'Harry Potter' fans into a frenzy. Instead of offering a speculative answer, he said, "Well, I'm told they're already filled, aren't they? I've already said I think Cillian Murphy is very good. A very, very good choice. I think they've cast it, haven't they? ...I don't know, I thought they had." 

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Fans saw the apparent slip as an unintentional confirmation of Murphy's casting after it was captured on tape and swiftly went viral online, along with his enthusiastic endorsement of Murphy as a possible replacement.

In a 2025 appearance on the Happy, Sad, Confused podcast, Cillian Murphy—known for his critically acclaimed roles in 'Peaky Blinders' and 'Oppenheimer'—addressed the rumours, joking that it would be "really hard to follow anything Ralph Fiennes does" and claimed that he has no idea about being cast. Fiennes' most recent remarks are all the more intriguing and paradoxical because of his prior denial, which heightens the mystery surrounding the part. 

Image Courtesy: People

Fans are left to interpret Fiennes' comments for the time being; some see them as a near-confirmation, while others question if he was just supporting a fellow actor he respects. The widespread curiosity in the hiring of one of the most recognizable villains in the 'Harry Potter' series is reflected in the clip's virality.

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The New 'Harry Potter' Series: What We Know

The goal of HBO's upcoming 'Harry Potter' series, which was originally revealed in 2023, is to faithfully adapt J.K. Rowling's cherished books while delving deeper into the rich world and characters of the books than the original films did. The project is planned to be a multi-season series that might span 10 years of content and storyline, with each season focusing on one of the seven books.

Image Courtesy: Vanity Fair

Thus far, casting announcements have been made for a number of significant parts, including Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Dominic McLaughlin as the beloved Harry Potter. 

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Nick Frost as Hagrid, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall, Katherine Parkinson as Molly Weasley, and Johnny Flynn as Lucius are among the other confirmed cast members. HBO has intentionally kept Voldemort's casting under wraps—until now. 

Image Courtesy: Advanced Television

One of the most eagerly awaited TV shows in recent memory, the series is slated to debut on HBO and Max in 2027 and promises to bring viewers back to the wizarding realm through a new perspective and a new cast of performers.

Murphy Rumours vs. Official Word

Neither Cillian Murphy nor HBO have formally confirmed that Murphy would play Voldemort in the series, despite the excitement around Fiennes' remarks. Murphy's earlier statement that he was unaware of such casting and that it would be extremely difficult to replicate Fiennes' famous performance implies that, if he is involved, formal announcements are being planned carefully. Whether Fiennes truly let slip the news or simply expressed admiration for Murphy remains debated among fans and media observers.

The speculation also highlights how passionate audiences remain about the Harry Potter universe and how closely they scrutinize even the smallest hints. The wizarding world's next chapter continues to enthrall both new and old fans as fresh information and official casting updates surface in the run-up to the 2027 release. 

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