Legacy of the Original Harry Potter Cast: Where Are They Now?

More than two decades after the first Harry Potter film enchanted audiences worldwide, the legacy of the original Harry Potter cast continues to thrive. While the magical world is now being reimagined with the upcoming HBO Harry Potter series cast, fans still hold a deep affection for the actors who first brought J.K. Rowling’s characters to life. From global stardom to quiet creative pivots, here's a look at where the original cast members are today—and how their legacies shape the wizarding world as it evolves.

Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter)

Daniel Radcliffe, who portrayed the Boy Who Lived across eight blockbuster films, has carved out a diverse and acclaimed post-Potter career. Rather than chase conventional blockbusters, Radcliffe embraced indie films and offbeat roles, including Swiss Army Man, Guns Akimbo, and Weird: The Al Yankovic Story. His stage work—such as Equus and The Cripple of Inishmaan—has also earned him critical praise.

Despite the announcement of the new Harry Potter series HBO cast, Radcliffe has shown support for the reboot, stating in interviews that he’s “excited to see a new generation take on these roles.”

Emma Watson (Hermione Granger)

Known for her intelligent and grounded portrayal of Hermione Granger, Emma Watson has become a powerful voice for gender equality and human rights. Following the final Harry Potter film, Watson starred in acclaimed movies like The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Beauty and the Beast, and Little Women.

She also served as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and launched the “HeForShe” campaign, making waves outside the world of film. Although Watson has taken a step back from acting in recent years, her impact—both onscreen and off—is still strongly felt.

With the new Harry Potter TV series on the horizon, Watson’s Hermione remains a benchmark against which the next portrayal will inevitably be compared.

Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley)

Rupert Grint’s portrayal of the loyal and humorous Ron Weasley won hearts around the globe. Since Potter, Grint has appeared in a mix of independent films and television series, including Sick Note, Servant, and Knock at the Cabin.

In 2020, he made headlines when he joined Instagram and introduced the world to his daughter, Wednesday, with partner Georgia Groome. While Grint remains largely low-key, he expressed nostalgia during the Return to Hogwarts reunion and acknowledged the franchise’s lasting impact on his life.

Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy)

Tom Felton embraced his complex role as Draco Malfoy with such skill that he became a fan favorite. Post-Potter, Felton appeared in Rise of the Planet of the Apes, The Flash, and various indie films. He’s also a musician and author, having published his memoir Beyond the Wand, which became a bestseller.

As the HBO Harry Potter series cast is gradually revealed, fans frequently mention Felton as someone they'd like to see return in a new role—perhaps even as Lucius Malfoy.

Bonnie Wright (Ginny Weasley)

Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley, shifted her focus toward environmental activism and filmmaking. After studying film at the University of the Arts London, Wright directed several short films and launched her own production company. She also published a book on sustainable living, titled Go Gently.

While she may not be in the acting spotlight like some of her peers, Wright has made it clear that her legacy extends beyond Hogwarts, inspiring fans to live more consciously.

Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom)

From an awkward Hogwarts student to a heroic figure in The Deathly Hallows, Matthew Lewis experienced one of the most dramatic character arcs in the series. Today, Lewis has emerged as a respected television actor, with standout roles in All Creatures Great and Small, Ripper Street, and Happy Valley.

Known for his transformation and grounded nature, Lewis has also voiced support for the upcoming Harry Potter cast HBO series, stating it’s “a great opportunity to explore the richness of the books.”

The Legacy Lives On

While the HBO Harry Potter series cast will introduce new faces as Dumbledore, Snape, McGonagall, and eventually Harry, Ron, and Hermione, the legacy of the original Harry Potter cast remains untouchable. Their performances laid the foundation for a cinematic phenomenon that still resonates today.

Many fans are understandably skeptical about a reboot, especially with so much emotional investment in the original cast. But as streaming audiences grow and generations shift, the upcoming Harry Potter TV series offers a chance to reimagine the story—while still honoring the past.

Final Thoughts

The original Harry Potter cast shaped a cultural moment unlike any other. As the Harry Potter series HBO cast begins to step into the spotlight, it’s clear that comparisons are inevitable—but so is evolution. For millions, the legacy of Radcliffe, Watson, Grint, and the rest of the cast isn’t just about movies; it’s about growing up, finding courage, and believing in magic.

Their journey continues—in new forms, new series, and new memories yet to be made.