Ralph Fiennes named Tilda Swinton as a strong choice to play Voldemort in the HBO series Harry Potter. The 63-year-old actor made the comment during his appearance on The Claudia Winkleman Show, aired on April 10. Ele played the villain in the original films, between 2001 and 2011, from Harry Potter and Cálice from Fogo.
Fiennes confirmed that he was approached to return to the role, but considers that the opportunity was behind him. Ele declared that he would accept the rerun years ago, but nothing progressed and now he understands that this chapter has closed. The HBO series brings a new cast to adapt the books by J.K. Rowling and is scheduled to premiere on December 25, 2026.
Ralph Fiennes is a favorite to play Voldemort in the ‘HARRY POTTER’ series (HBO Max) and takes on the role of the character: Tilda Swinton.
— SERIELIZADOS (@SERIELIZADOS)April 13, 2026
“It would be wonderful.” Did you buy it?pic.twitter.com/fSLHj6gVwE
Cast already announced for the production
HBO has released part of the main cast of the series. Dominic McLaughlin plays Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton plays Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout takes on the role of Ron Weasley. John Lithgow has been cast as Albus Dumbledore, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape and Harry Potter0 as Harry Potter1.
Other names include actors for secondary roles, but the performer of Voldemort has not yet been officially revealed. The production maintains secrecy about the casting of the main antagonist. Fiennes avoided speculating on names beyond the suggestion he made.
Statement from Fiennes about the return itself
During the interview, the presenter asked if Fiennes would consider returning as Voldemort. The actor recalled that, after the end of the saga in theaters, he responded positively to a similar query. Ele said: “I said, yes, I would love to.” Over time, however, the chance did not materialize.
Fiennes commented that the ship has already sailed. Ele avoided any sign of frustration and kept a light tone when talking about the subject. Participation in the BBC program took place a few days ago and generated repercussions among fans of the franchise.
Tilda Swinton suggestion for the villain
Fiennes mentioned that he heard the name Tilda Swinton as a possible candidate for the role. Ele stated that she would be incredible and fantastic in acting. Swinton, known for roles in films such as Grande Hotel Budapeste and Doutor Estranho, has versatility recognized by critics.
The idea of an actress playing Voldemort represents a different approach to the original film version. Fiennes did not detail specific reasons for the choice, but reinforced the admiration for her professional colleague. Até At the moment, there is no confirmation whether Swinton has been contacted by production.
- Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter
- Arabella Stanton like Hermione Granger
- Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley
- John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
- Paapa Essiedu like Severus Snape
- Nick Frost like Rubeus Hagrid
Previous rumors about Cillian Murphy
Fiennes had already commented on the casting on another occasion and cited Cillian Murphy as a good option. The statement generated speculation in the press and online. Murphy categorically denied any involvement with the role in later interviews.
He stated that there is no truth to the rumors and asked that the denial be highlighted. Murphy also praised Fiennes’s work as Voldemort and wished success to whoever takes on the character. HBO has not publicly confirmed or denied information about the villain so far.
Details of the new adaptation
HBO’s series Harry Potter will adapt the seven books into different seasons. The first season premieres in late 2026 and should cover the initial events of the story. The production promises fidelity to the original texts with new actors and updated direction.
Fiennes participated in eight films in the cinematic saga and left his mark on the character with striking makeup, voice and presence. Ele should not return to the franchise in the television version. The conversation on The Claudia Winkleman Show brought up the debate about the future of the role without giving away production spoilers.
