Just when Harry Potter fans thought that HBO was done shocking them with more surprises, the network seems to have outdone itself. The X account ScreenTime revealed in a post that HBO is reportedly auditioning both men and women as Voldemort.
In doing so, the network is breaking a promise it made when it first started making the series. In multiple press releases, they claimed:
The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter books by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling.
Some of the cast choices they have made so far have been far from “faithful”. Despite the fan backlash against Paapa Essiedu’s casting as Professor Snape, the creators have made no moves to change it.
Harry Potter Series: HBO Is Reportedly Not Against Casting Women for Voldemort
Longtime fans of the franchise know that Lord Voldemort/Tom Marvolo Riddle was a man. In the movies, Ralph Fiennes brilliantly portrayed Voldemort, while Christian Coulson played young Tom Marvolo Riddle. Even in the books, author J. K. Rowling has written her as a man.
However, HBO seems to have no qualms about changing yet another major detail from the original books and movies. Considering they have already swapped races for Snape, it won’t be too shocking if they end up casting a woman as Lord Voldemort, regardless of how it affects the show.
Here is a look at the series’ cast list so far:
If a woman is cast as Voldemort, it has to be noted that the nickname ‘He Who Must Not Be Named’ will have to be changed. So, HBO needs to think twice before making the bold decision of gender-swapping the role.
Fans Are Losing Their Cool Over This Decision
HBO is giving fans the Harry Potter series they never asked for, and even said that it will be a “faithful adaptation.” With J. K. Rowling attached as executive producer, fans had a little hope that there would not be major changes, but this Voldemort casting report only spells more trouble.
Here is how some fans reacted:
After the Snape casting, of course they are… Absolutely nobody is surprised. pic.twitter.com/yLgCxlQvEl
Why make things so much more difficult for yourself, when you really don't have to?
🤦🏾‍♂️ 🤦🏾‍♂️ here is a hint…. FAITHFULLY adapt books people love and grow up with…
Don’t make ridiculous casting choices.
Honor the original creator.
Or don’t bother…
One more? Just write a new story. why adamant on ruining something original?
WB is really trying to upset the fans at this point
Fans are clearly getting upset by Warner Bros.’ constant attempts to modernize the story or give it a new touch when all they need to do is be faithful to the source material.
What are your thoughts on a woman being cast as Voldemort? Let us know in the comments.
All Harry Potter movies are currently streaming on Max.
