Nicholas Hoult is set to star as Gilderoy Lockhart in the second season of HBO's Harry Potter series, according to Variety sources. The 36-year-old actor, known for roles in Mad Max: Fury Road and X-Men, will take on the role of the arrogant Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, originally played by Kenneth Branagh in the film series.
Lockhart is a fan-favourite villain whose tales of bravery are revealed to be false, exposing his cowardly nature and endangering Harry Potter, played by Dominic McLaughlin. The second season adapts the second book, 'Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,' in which Ron Weasley's sister Ginny, played by Alastair Stout, is possessed by a diary belonging to a young Tom Riddle, nearly dying in the titular chamber.
Hoult's Franchise Experience
Hoult is no stranger to major franchises, currently portraying Lex Luthor in James Gunn's Superman and previously playing Hank McCoy/Beast in the X-Men movies. His casting in Harry Potter adds to a career of high-profile roles.
No actor has yet been announced for the role of Ginny, who becomes Harry's love interest. Gracie Cochrane, who played Ginny in season one, stepped down, prompting a renewed search for a replacement. Fans are also eagerly awaiting the casting of Tom Riddle, originally played by Christian Coulson, with many hoping for Adolescence breakout actor Owen Cooper.
Season One Premiere and Backlash
The first season of the series is set to premiere this Christmas with eight episodes. The project has faced backlash, largely due to the controversial views of the series' creator, JK Rowling, on the transgender community. Rowling has been criticised for her stance on transgender issues, including her support for a Supreme Court ruling on the definition of a woman.
Actors associated with the series have been questioned on their stance on trans rights. Recently, Bel Powley, who plays Aunt Petunia, faced criticism after expressing support for trans people while affirming her love for Harry Potter. She told the Telegraph: 'I think that the trans community deserve safety and dignity and respect and total acceptance. But, I love Harry Potter. I grew up with the books. I am from that first generation of readers and, again, I love magic and spookiness.'
Other Actors Distancing Themselves
Powley is not the only cast member to distance themselves from Rowling's views. Paapa Essiedu, who plays Professor Snape, and John Lithgow, who portrays Dumbledore, have both publicly distanced themselves from Rowling's opinions. These statements have drawn mixed reactions, with some fans calling for a boycott of the series.
Despite the controversy, the series continues production, with season two expected to begin filming soon. The casting of Hoult as Lockhart is a significant addition, and fans are eager to see how the series adapts the beloved books.
