The Boy Who Lived On: Where Are The Original Harry Potter Actors Now (2025 Update)?

The question of "who acted Harry Potter" is one that instantly conjures the image of a single, iconic actor: Daniel Radcliffe. However, in the rapidly evolving world of the Wizarding World, the answer is becoming more complex. As of December 2025, not only is Daniel Radcliffe thriving with major new stage and screen projects, but a completely new actor has been cast to take up the mantle of the Boy Who Lived in the highly anticipated HBO Max television series. This article provides the definitive, most up-to-date look at the original cast’s lives and the surprising new faces stepping into their famous roles.

The original film series, which ran from 2001 to 2011, cemented the legacy of the Golden Trio—Harry, Hermione, and Ron—in cinematic history. Over a decade later, the actors have successfully navigated the challenging transition from child stars to serious adult performers, with each finding unique success in theater, television, and film. Their careers in 2025 show a clear dedication to diverse, challenging roles far removed from Hogwarts, alongside major updates about the new generation of actors preparing to bring the story to life again.

The Original Harry Potter: Daniel Radcliffe Biography and 2025 Career Update

Daniel Radcliffe remains the definitive face of Harry Potter, but his career since the final film, Deathly Hallows – Part 2, has been defined by his commitment to eclectic, often eccentric, roles. This strategy has successfully allowed him to shed the boy wizard image.

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Daniel Radcliffe: Full Profile and Biography

• Full Real Name: Daniel Jacob Radcliffe
• Character Portrayed: Harry Potter
• Date of Birth: July 23, 1989
• Place of Birth: Fulham, London, England, UK
• Astrological Sign: Leo
• Best Known For: Portraying the title character in all eight films of the Harry Potter film series.
• Estimated Net Worth (2025): Approximately $110 million.

Daniel Radcliffe’s Current Projects (2025)

Radcliffe has firmly established himself as a respected stage and screen actor. His current projects demonstrate a continued focus on theatre and high-quality television.

• Broadway Triumph: Radcliffe is starring in the Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim’s musical Merrily We Roll Along, which is highly anticipated in 2025. This role showcases his versatility and commitment to challenging musical theatre.
• Mental Health Advocacy: He is also involved in the new production of Every Brilliant Thing, which has partnered with Project Healthy Minds, showing his commitment to mental health awareness through his work.
• Television Success: He continues his role in the anthology comedy series Miracle Workers, where he has played various main characters across multiple seasons, further diversifying his portfolio.

His estimated net worth of $110 million, largely accumulated from the Harry Potter franchise, allows him the freedom to choose passion projects over purely commercial ones, a path he has consistently followed since leaving Hogwarts.

The Golden Trio’s Latest Endeavors: Emma Watson and Rupert Grint

The actors who played Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley have also forged fascinating post-Potter careers, with recent updates highlighting their diverse interests and new roles.

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Emma Watson (Hermione Granger)

Emma Watson, who played the brilliant Hermione Granger, has balanced acting with her roles as a prominent activist and fashion figure. While her recent on-screen appearances have been selective, her work behind the scenes and in other fields has been continuous.

• Non-Acting Roles: In a unique 2025 update, Watson was named as a member of the prestigious Prix Versailles 2025 jury, which rewards architecture and design. This highlights her dedication to cultural and artistic pursuits outside of traditional Hollywood.
• Directing and Fashion: She has moved into directing, notably with a short film for a major fashion house, and has teased a brand-new, undisclosed project, keeping fans curious about her next move.
• Activism: Watson remains a powerful voice for gender equality and sustainability, using her platform to drive change, a path that mirrors the social justice passion of her on-screen character.

Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley)

Rupert Grint, the beloved Ron Weasley, has focused heavily on television and independent film, successfully transitioning to more mature, dramatic roles.

• Major TV Role: Grint starred in the critically acclaimed psychological horror series Servant on Apple TV+, a role that showcased his dramatic range.
• Upcoming Film: He is set to join the cast of the new Ti West film, EBENEZER, alongside Daisy Ridley, marking a significant return to the big screen in a high-profile project.
• Reflecting on Ron: Grint has openly discussed the challenge of moving past his iconic role, acknowledging in late 2025 that he'll "never step out of Ron Weasley’s shadow," a sentiment many fans appreciate for its honesty.

The Next Generation: Who is the New Harry Potter?

The most significant and fresh update to the question of "who acted Harry Potter" is the announcement of the main cast for the upcoming, long-anticipated HBO Max television series. This new series promises a faithful, decade-long adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s original seven books, requiring a completely new set of actors to take on the legendary roles.

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The new cast, announced in a major reveal, introduces a fresh trio to the Wizarding World, a move that aims to revitalize the franchise for a new generation while respecting the source material.

The New Golden Trio and Key Cast Members

The new actors must carry the immense weight of fan expectation, but the casting choices reflect a mix of fresh talent and seasoned veterans.

• The New Harry Potter: Dominic McLaughlin has been cast as the new Harry Potter. McLaughlin steps into the lead role, tasked with bringing a fresh take to the Boy Who Lived.
• The New Hermione Granger: Arabella Stanton will portray the brilliant and resourceful Hermione Granger.
• The New Ron Weasley: Alastair Stout is set to play the loyal and humorous Ron Weasley.
• Albus Dumbledore: Veteran actor John Lithgow has been cast as Albus Dumbledore, an exciting choice that brings significant gravitas to the role.
• Professor McGonagall: Janet McTeer will take on the role of Professor McGonagall.

Other notable names joining the star-studded ensemble include Iwan Rheon as Professor Lupin, Keira Knightley as Professor Umbridge, and Kit Harington as Professor Lockhart, signaling a high-budget, high-talent production.

Other Beloved Cast Members and Future Reunions

The wider cast of the original films has also seen continued success, with one particular update generating significant buzz among fans of the Slytherin house.

Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy) Returns to the Wizarding World

In a surprising and highly anticipated move, Tom Felton, who played Harry’s rival Draco Malfoy, is reprising his role on the stage. Felton is returning to Broadway to star in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child for a limited run.

• The Cursed Child: Felton’s run as the older Draco Malfoy is scheduled from November 11, 2025, through March 2026, marking a unique return for an original film actor to the stage extension of the franchise.
• Fan Reaction: This news has caused a surge of excitement, with fans planning trips to New York City just to see the original Draco Malfoy back in the Wizarding World.

The Possibility of a True Reunion

Despite the occasional mini-reunions and the highly successful 20th Anniversary special, Return to Hogwarts, the possibility of the original trio reuniting for a new film, such as an adaptation of The Cursed Child, has been largely ruled out by director Chris Columbus. The focus remains on the individual successes of the original actors and the launch of the new television series.

From the $110 million net worth of Daniel Radcliffe and his serious Broadway commitments to the casting of Dominic McLaughlin as the new Harry Potter, the legacy of the Boy Who Lived is both celebrated and evolving in 2025. The original cast continues to amaze fans with their diverse career choices, while the new cast prepares to introduce the magic of Hogwarts to a whole new generation.