You probably also know that the series itself has become fairly controversial due to the involvement of Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling, who has spent the majority of her post-Harry Potter career spending time — and money — essentially pushing back against the mere notion of trans rights.

In the film adaptions, Richard Harris played Dumbledore in the first two movies until his death in October 2002. Michael Gambon then took over the role until the final film, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2." Gambon died in September 2023 at age 82.

John Lithgow has responded to the backlash over being cast as Albus Dumbledore in J.K. Rowling's forthcoming 'Harry Potter' series.