The rumours continue to swirl

In this latest development, British comedy legend Nick Frost has been tipped to play half-giant Rebeus Hagrid.

So far, only John Lithgow has been confirmed as a cast member, playing Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore.

However, Paapa Essiedu and Janet McTeer are said to be close to landing roles as Severus Snape and Minerva McGonagall respectively.

According to Deadline, Frost, best known for his roles alongside Simon Pegg in Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, is on the verge of agreeing a deal to play Hagrid.

Frost appears to have sparked the rumours himself after posting a cryptic message on Instagram on March 20.

The actor wrote: "It’s happening, it’s actually happening. Stay cool."

In a statement to Deadline, HBO said: "We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumour and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalise deals."

In December, Ted Lasso star Brett Goldstein had been linked with the role.

In the original film franchise Robbie Coltrane famously played Hagrid. He passed away aged 72 in October 2022.

HBO and Warner Bros are behind the new series and will be another direct adaptation of JK Rowling's best-selling book franchise.

An open casting call has been launched asking for children from the UK and Ireland to audition for the lead roles.