The Harry Potter film series turned a generation of young actors into global stars. From Hogwarts classrooms to Hollywood red carpets, the cast grew up in front of millions. While some stayed in the spotlight, others chose quieter paths away from blockbuster fame. Here are 20 Harry Potter actors and where they are today.
Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter)
After playing the Boy Who Lived for a decade, Daniel Radcliffe deliberately chose unconventional roles. He starred in indie films like Swiss Army Man and thrillers such as The Woman in Black. He also returned to the stage in productions like Equus and The Lifespan of a Fact. Radcliffe continues to balance quirky independent projects with mainstream films and recently embraced fatherhood while keeping his personal life private.
Emma Watson (Hermione Granger)
Emma Watson transitioned smoothly from child star to activist and entrepreneur. She appeared in major films like Beauty and the Beast and Little Women. Beyond acting, she became a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and launched initiatives promoting gender equality. In recent years, she stepped back from acting to focus on education, sustainability, and business ventures.
Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley)
Rupert Grint explored darker and more comedic roles after Harry Potter. He starred in the Apple TV+ thriller series Servant and appeared in British television projects. Grint also embraced family life and occasionally reflects on his time in the wizarding world while continuing steady work in television.
Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy)
Tom Felton leaned into both film and music. He appeared in projects like The Flash and returned briefly to the wizarding world through reunion specials and Broadway’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Felton also released memoir-style reflections on his experiences and maintains a strong social media presence connected to the franchise’s fanbase.
Bonnie Wright (Ginny Weasley)
Bonnie Wright stepped behind the camera after the series ended. She founded her own production company and directed short films focused on environmental themes. Wright also advocates for ocean conservation and sustainable living.
Trending on The Scroller
Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom)
Matthew Lewis surprised fans with a dramatic transformation post-Hogwarts. He appeared in films like Me Before You and starred in British TV dramas. Lewis continues acting while engaging with fans at conventions and special events.
Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood)
Evanna Lynch became an outspoken advocate for veganism and animal rights. She competed on Dancing with the Stars in Ireland and launched a podcast. Lynch remains active in activism and occasionally appears in independent projects.
Alan Rickman (Severus Snape)
Alan Rickman continued his acclaimed acting career until his passing in 2016. Known for his powerful stage and screen presence, Rickman left behind a legacy that extends far beyond Harry Potter, including roles in Die Hard and Sense and Sensibility.
Sign up for our newsletter
Maggie Smith (Minerva McGonagall)
Dame Maggie Smith carried her already legendary career forward with roles in Downton Abbey and numerous stage productions. Her sharp wit and commanding performances have kept her in demand across film and television.
Ralph Fiennes (Lord Voldemort)
Ralph Fiennes remained a dominant force in film. He starred in The Grand Budapest Hotel, the James Bond series as M, and various prestige dramas. Fiennes continues directing and acting in both blockbuster and arthouse films.
Helena Bonham Carter (Bellatrix Lestrange)
Helena Bonham Carter maintained her distinctive presence in film and television. She portrayed Princess Margaret in The Crown and appeared in multiple high-profile productions. Her eccentric style and bold performances remain her signature.
Gary Oldman (Sirius Black)
Gary Oldman went on to win the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour. He continues to take on complex roles in film and television, further cementing his status as one of Britain’s finest actors.
Jason Isaacs (Lucius Malfoy)
Jason Isaacs expanded his television career with roles in series such as The OA and Star Trek: Discovery. He balances voice acting, film work, and stage performances.
Robbie Coltrane (Rubeus Hagrid)
Robbie Coltrane reprised his role in reunion specials before his passing in 2022. He remained beloved for his warmth and humor, both on-screen and off.
Michael Gambon (Albus Dumbledore)
Michael Gambon continued acting in film and television following his time as Dumbledore. He retired from acting due to health concerns and passed away in 2023, leaving a remarkable theatrical legacy.
Imelda Staunton (Dolores Umbridge)
Imelda Staunton achieved critical acclaim for her stage work and later portrayed Queen Elizabeth II in the final seasons of The Crown. Her career remains active and highly respected.
Brendan Gleeson (Alastor “Mad-Eye” Moody)
Brendan Gleeson appeared in numerous acclaimed films, including The Banshees of Inisherin. He continues collaborating with major directors and often shares the screen with his son, Domhnall Gleeson.
Warwick Davis (Filius Flitwick / Griphook)
Warwick Davis continued working in major franchises, including Star Wars. He also hosted television shows and advocates for greater representation of actors with dwarfism in entertainment.
Robert Pattinson (Cedric Diggory)
Robert Pattinson reinvented himself with indie films like Good Time and The Lighthouse before stepping into the cape and cowl as Batman in 2022. He now ranks among Hollywood’s most sought-after leading men.
Katie Leung (Cho Chang)
Katie Leung focused on stage work and television roles, including appearances in British dramas. She has spoken openly about representation and diversity in the entertainment industry.
Explore more vintage content:
From child stars to Oscar winners, the Harry Potter cast built careers that extend far beyond Hogwarts. While some remain closely tied to the wizarding world, others carved entirely new paths, proving that life after magic can be just as compelling. If you loved this content, check out 15 Forgotten Holiday Traditions That Deserve a Comeback, or 15 Legendary ’80s Movie Fails That Crashed and Burned.
