How to Get Cast in a Major Series Like Harry Potter

The new Harry Potter television series is expected to follow the books closely with each season covering one book. That means the casting process will continue for years as new characters appear in the story. While some major roles have already been confirmed the casting team will still need actors for many characters who appear later in the books or who play smaller but memorable roles throughout the story.
Understanding which characters may still be cast can give actors a better idea of the types of roles productions will be looking for.

Characters that may still be cast in the early seasons
The first two books introduce a wide range of Hogwarts students, magical creatures and adult characters who all require casting. Many of these roles are perfect opportunities for emerging actors.
For younger actors and teens this can include characters such as Colin Creevey and Millicent Bulstrode. These are students at Hogwarts who interact directly with the main trio during the events of the second book.
Another important role introduced in the second book is Moaning Myrtle. This ghost character becomes part of several key scenes and is known for her dramatic personality.
The series will also need actors for magical creatures and unusual characters including Dobby the house elf, Aragog the giant spider and the teenage version of Tom Riddle who appears through the enchanted diary.

One of the biggest guest roles in the second story is Professor Gilderoy Lockhart. This character is charismatic, flamboyant and comedic, which makes it one of the most distinctive adult roles in the early part of the series.
There are also Hogwarts figures who appear throughout the school setting such as Madam Pince in the library, the ghosts of Hogwarts including Nearly Headless Nick and other students across the houses who populate classes and Quidditch teams.

Major characters who appear later in the series
Because the television show is expected to run for multiple seasons there are also huge roles that will not appear until later books. These are characters many actors will be hoping to play as the series develops.
Some of the most iconic include Lord Voldemort, Bellatrix Lestrange, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin and Peter Pettigrew. These characters do not appear fully until later parts of the story which means their casting announcements may come years after the first season begins.
Other fan favourite characters introduced later include Luna Lovegood, Nymphadora Tonks, Cedric Diggory, Cho Chang and Dolores Umbridge.
Because the series is designed to tell the story across many seasons the casting process will continue to introduce new performers as the world expands. So check out our top tips below to make sure you're ready. 

Understanding the tone of the series
If you are preparing for auditions connected to a project like this you need to understand the world you are stepping into. Watch the films carefully. Read the books if you can. Pay attention to how characters behave rather than trying to copy performances.
Casting directors are not looking for impressions of the original actors. They are looking for believable performances that fit naturally into the tone of the story.


Self tape skills matter
Large productions now rely heavily on self tapes during the early stages of casting. This means actors need to feel confident performing on camera with a simple home setup.
Good lighting, clear sound and a neutral background all help but the most important thing is a truthful performance. If you can connect to the camera and make the scene feel real that will always stand out.


Professional headshots are essential
Your headshot is often the first thing casting directors see when submissions arrive. A strong headshot should look like you on your best day and reflect who you are right now.
Images that are heavily edited or outdated can create confusion when casting teams are sorting through thousands of submissions.


Training gives actors an advantage
Training is often what separates actors who book work from those who struggle to get seen. Strong training helps actors take direction quickly, understand character and perform confidently under pressure.
Casting teams notice actors who arrive prepared and easy to work with.


Preparing for opportunities like this
Projects connected to major franchises attract huge numbers of submissions. The actors who stand out are rarely the ones trying to do something extreme or attention grabbing. They are the ones who are consistent, prepared and professional.


At IPM Acting Academy we focus on helping actors prepare for opportunities exactly like these. Members receive access to open casting calls, discounted professional headshots and regular screen acting training.
The goal is simple. When castings for projects like this appear you are not trying to catch up. You are already ready.
Actors often focus on the moment the casting call appears. In reality the actors who succeed are the ones who prepared long before that moment arrived.

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