Wikimedia Commons/Harry Potter HBO Series Celebrity John Lithgow addresses J.K. Rowling controversy, explains his decision to play Dumbledore in the new HBO Harry Potter series. April 7, 2026 AceShowbiz - John Lithgow, recently announced as the new Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO reboot of the Harry Potter franchise, has publicly addressed the ongoing backlash related to J.K. Rowling's controversial views. The series, which aims to revisit one of the most iconic fantasy worlds, has been scrutinized heavily since its inception, especially regarding casting choices and creative direction.