HBO is moving full steam ahead with its new Harry Potter TV series and has reportedly made its first major casting decision: John Lithgow will step into the role of Professor Dumbledore.

Rumors have suggested that HBO has been searching for a new Dumbledore for some time, and it seems that search has finally concluded. In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Lithgow confirmed he has accepted the role, describing it as one that will shape the “final chapter” of his life.

“It came as a complete surprise to me. I received the call while at the Sundance Film Festival for another project, and it wasn’t an easy choice—this role will likely define the final stage of my career.”

He continued, “Still, I’m really looking forward to it. Some incredibly talented people are returning to the Harry Potter universe, which made the decision even harder. I’ll be around 87 by the time we wrap filming, but I’ve officially accepted.”

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This marks the first announced casting for the planned Harry Potter TV adaptation, though it’s not yet officially confirmed by HBO or Warner Bros.

HBO intends to readapt all of J.K. Rowling’s original books into a television series, featuring an entirely new cast taking on iconic roles such as Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, and other residents of Hogwarts. Rowling will executive produce alongside Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts.

While Lithgow has verbally confirmed his involvement, the fact that the full cast has yet to be finalized suggests the series is still in pre-production and some time away from filming.

Lithgow is a seasoned film and television actor, widely recognized for his comedic role as Dick Solomon in the sitcom 3rd Rock from the Sun. He also earned critical praise and an Emmy Award for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in the first season of Netflix’s The Crown.