Kit Harington to play Gilderoy Lockhart in HBO's Harry Potter

The Cliff News | 26 August 2026

Kit Harington has officially stepped into the flamboyant robes of Gilderoy Lockhart for Season 2 of HBO's highly anticipated 'Harry Potter' series. Harington takes over the role from Nicholas Hoult, who has exited the production reportedly due to unavoidable scheduling conflicts.

Hoult's departure is understood to stem from his commitment to filming James Gunn's upcoming Superman film, 'Man of Tomorrow,' where he is set to portray Lex Luthor. The overlap in filming schedules is believed to be the primary reason for his exit from the magical adaptation.

New Wizard on Board

According to reports, HBO swiftly approached Harington after Hoult stepped away. The actor was reportedly available and enthusiastic about taking on the part. This casting marks a significant addition to the growing ensemble of the 'Harry Potter' series.

Harington is no stranger to the character of Gilderoy Lockhart. He previously lent his voice to the popular wizard last year in Audible's full-cast audiobook adaptation of the 'Harry Potter' series. Speaking to Variety about his prior experience, Harington described the decision to voice Lockhart as an "easy one," citing the character as a personal favorite and acknowledging the inherent entertainment value of portraying him.

Harington's Excitement for the Role

Harington shared his thrilled reaction to the casting news with Collider, having only recently learned of the announcement. He expressed his long-standing admiration for the 'Harry Potter' universe, calling the opportunity to play Lockhart a "dream come true."

"I'm a long-time Harry Potter fan and it's a dream to play Lockhart. I had just learned about the announcement and felt thrilled."

He also noted that his approach to the character on screen will differ from his audiobook performance, acknowledging the distinct demands of visual acting. However, he believes his prior work with Lockhart has provided him with a valuable understanding of the character.

Season 2 Focus on Chamber of Secrets

Season 2 of HBO's 'Harry Potter' series will be based on 'Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,' the same installment that featured Lockhart prominently in the 2002 film adaptation, where he was portrayed by Kenneth Branagh. Filming for the new season is slated to commence this fall.

In the background, the first season of the series is scheduled to premiere on HBO and HBO Max on Christmas Day. The lead roles are filled by Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley.

The supporting cast also boasts several well-known actors, including John Lithgow as Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Professor Snape, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid. Gilderoy Lockhart, a famously self-promoting wizard known for his exaggerated tales, takes on the role of Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts, despite a notable lack of skill for the position.