The Legacy of Richard Harris as Dumbledore

Professor Albus Dumbledore is one of the most beloved and complex characters in the Harry Potter franchise. Known for his wisdom, kindness, and deep understanding of magic, he plays a crucial role in shaping Harry Potter’s journey. His character embodies the epitome of leadership, compassion, and mystery, making him a favourite among Potterheads.

Over the years, several actors have taken on the role, each bringing something unique to the character:

Richard Harris portrayed him in the first two films (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets), giving Dumbledore a grandfatherly charm.
Michael Gambon took over the role after Harris’ passing in 2002, portraying a more intense and energetic version of Dumbledore for the remaining six films.
Jude Law played a younger version in the Fantastic Beasts series, adding depth to the character’s earlier years.
Toby Regbo portrayed a teenage Dumbledore in flashbacks, providing insight into his formative years.

While fans cherish Harris’ version of the beloved headmaster, many are surprised to learn that he was initially offered the role of another legendary wizard. His son, Jared Harris, recently revealed that his father turned down the opportunity to play Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings, a decision that could have drastically altered the history of cinema.

Why Richard Harris Declined the Role of Gandalf

In 2022, the documentary The Ghost of Richard Harris gave fans a rare and intimate glimpse into the actor’s life, career, and personal choices. The documentary, which features interviews with Harris’ three sons, explores his legacy, his approach to acting, and some surprising decisions he made throughout his career.

Harris played Dumbledore in the first two films. (**Warner Bros**)

One of the most shocking revelations was that Harris had been offered the role of Gandalf in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy. At the same time, he was also being considered for Dumbledore in Harry Potter. Both characters were incredibly significant, requiring actors who could embody wisdom, authority, and a touch of mysticism.

However, Harris ultimately chose Dumbledore over Gandalf because he didn’t want to spend long periods away from home. Filming Lord of the Rings required actors to relocate to New Zealand for an extended period, something Harris wasn’t willing to do at that point in his life.

“Dad was offered Gandalf and Dumbledore at the same time, but he didn’t want to spend all that time in New Zealand,” Jared Harris told The Times.

This decision left the role open for Sir Ian McKellen, who later delivered one of the most iconic performances in fantasy film history. Fans often wonder what a Richard Harris Gandalf would have looked like, but his portrayal of Dumbledore remains cherished by Potterheads worldwide.

Ian McKellen on Why He Declined to Play Dumbledore

Interestingly, after Richard Harris’ passing in 2002, the search for a new Dumbledore began. Among the actors considered for the role was none other than Ian McKellen, the man who had already become legendary for playing Gandalf. Many believed that McKellen, with his commanding presence and deep voice, would have been a perfect fit for the Hogwarts headmaster.

However, in a surprising twist, McKellen turned down the opportunity to play Dumbledore. His reason? A previous remark made by Richard Harris about McKellen’s acting style.

In an interview with BBC HARDtalk, McKellen revealed:

“When they called me up and said if I would be interested in being in the Harry Potter films, they didn’t say what part. I worked out what they were thinking, and I couldn’t take over the part from an actor I know didn’t approve of me.”

Before his passing, Harris had made a critical remark about McKellen, as well as other esteemed actors like Derek Jacobi and Kenneth Branagh. He described them as:

“Technically brilliant, but passionless.”

McKellen, known for his wit and humor, later joked about the situation:

“When he died, he played Dumbledore, the wizard. I played the real wizard.”

While his comment was said in a light hearted manner, it’s clear that Harris’ opinion influenced McKellen’s decision to decline the role. Instead, Michael Gambon stepped in and played Dumbledore for the remainder of the Harry Potter films, giving his own interpretation of the character.

Who Should Play Dumbledore in the Upcoming Harry Potter TV Series?

With the Harry Potter reboot TV series officially announced for Max (formerly HBO Max), fans have started speculating about who should take on the role of Dumbledore. Since this adaptation is expected to be a faithful, long-term retelling of J.K. Rowling’s books, the casting of Dumbledore is crucial.

Jared Harris, Richard Harris’ son and a respected actor himself, recently shared his thoughts on the matter. He believes that Mark Rylance, an Academy Award-winning actor, would be an excellent choice.

“He’s a phenomenal actor. I saw that they’re thinking about him as a possible Dumbledore. He would be wonderful because there’s already something otherworldly about him.”

Rylance, known for his roles in Bridge of Spies, Dunkirk, and The BFG, has a unique ability to portray wisdom and mystery, qualities that are essential for Dumbledore. His calm demeanor and deep voice could bring a refreshing take on the character while staying true to the original books.

McKellen ended up playing Gandalf. (**New Line Cinema**)

📢 Social Media Reactions: Fans Weigh In on the Dumbledore Casting

As discussions about the Harry Potter TV series heat up, fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the recasting of Dumbledore and Harris’ past decision to turn down Gandalf.

Twitter Reactions

🐦 @PotterheadForever

“Imagine if Richard Harris had played Gandalf… that would’ve been WILD! But his Dumbledore was perfect. #HarryPotter #LordoftheRings”
🔗 View Tweet

🐦 @MiddleEarthFan

“McKellen as Gandalf and Harris as Dumbledore were both legendary. But would Harris have made a better Gandalf? 🤔 #LOTR #Dumbledore”
🔗 View Tweet

Reddit Discussion

📌 r/harrypotter Thread: Who Should Play Dumbledore in the TV Show?

“Jared Harris saying Mark Rylance should play Dumbledore is an interesting take. Who would you cast? I personally think Charles Dance would be amazing!” – u/MagicIsMight
🔗 Join the Discussion

Instagram Polls

📸 @WizardingWorld_Fanpage

Poll: Who should be the next Dumbledore?
✅ Mark Rylance – 45%
✅ Charles Dance – 30%
✅ Hugh Laurie – 15%
✅ Other – 10%
🔗 Vote Here

The debate continues across Facebook groups and TikTok, with fans passionately discussing the future of Hogwarts’ most powerful wizard.

Conclusion: A Fascinating ‘What If’ in Film History

Richard Harris’ decision to turn down Gandalf in favour of Dumbledore is one of the biggest “what if” moments in Hollywood history. While it’s fascinating to imagine him in the role of Gandalf, fans continue to appreciate the warmth and wisdom he brought to Dumbledore.

At the same time, Ian McKellen’s choice to decline Dumbledore shows the deep respect actors have for one another. The history behind these casting choices makes both the Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings franchises even more legendary.

With the upcoming Harry Potter TV series, one question remains: Who will be the next Dumbledore? Will it be Mark Rylance, or will Warner Bros. surprise fans with an unexpected choice?

What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join the discussion on Facebook and Instagram!

Featured Image Credit: Warner Bros