Nick Frost has disabled comments on his social media post celebrating his casting as Rubeus Hagrid in HBO’s new Harry Potter series. This comes after backlash from fans. Frost, a 53-year-old British actor known for his roles in “Shaun of the Dead” and “The World’s End,” joins the TV adaptation of the beloved series.
HBO’s ‘Harry Potter’ Show Confirms Six Big Cast Members via @forbes https://t.co/ZLEb51sQx9 pic.twitter.com/AD5xEtgrsa
— Paul Tassi (@PaulTassi) April 14, 2025
He will play the role of Hagrid, which was originally portrayed by the late Robbie Coltrane, who passed away in 2022. The new cast also includes John Lithgow as Hogwarts’ headmaster Albus Dumbledore, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, and Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall. Luke Thallon will portray Professor Quirrell, while Paul Whitehouse will play school caretaker Argus Filch.
Janet McTeer is brilliant casting as Professor McGonagall in @HBO's #HarryPotterHBO. She's always brilliant but was outstanding in Ozark.
I'm waiting for my audition to play Harry, @jk_rowling https://t.co/Giexc1Qvkw— John Boyne (@JohnBoyneBooks) April 14, 2025
Frost shared his excitement on social media, posting a selfie holding a copy of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.” He wrote, “You’re a wizard, Harry!!! Thank you for trusting me with such a loyal, gentle, courageous half-giant as Rubeus Hagrid. Robbie, I promise I won’t let you down.”
HBO has officially unveiled the first wave of casting for its highly anticipated Harry Potter TV series, set to premiere in 2026 and we are totally here for it! https://t.co/aMwg08Sb8C
— Candace Jordan (@CandidCandace) April 14, 2025
Frost disables comments amid backlash
However, fans’ reactions were divided.
While some praised Frost’s casting, others criticized his decision to work on a project that involves JK Rowling, who has faced criticism for her views on transgender issues. One fan commented, “You always were an artist I highly admired. Please think again if you want to get involved with that woman; you might lose a lot of fans with that decision.”
Comments have now been disabled on his post after many pointed out his association with Rowling.
Despite the backlash, Frost remains involved in the project, which is expected to air in late 2026. The series will adapt each of Rowling’s seven novels into its own season, which could span roughly ten years from start to finish. While Frost’s involvement has sparked controversy, the new Harry Potter series is highly anticipated and promises to bring the magical world to a new generation of viewers.
