The halls of Hogwarts are getting a new, albeit very familiar, face. Game of Thrones star Kit Harington is officially trading his sword for a wand, stepping into the role of the exceptionally vain Gilderoy Lockhart for the second season of HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter television series.
A Sudden Casting Shake-Up
Just weeks after Superman actor Nicholas Hoult was announced for the part, scheduling conflicts forced him to bow out. Enter Harington, who is actually no stranger to the famous wizard’s oversized ego. Last year, Harington voiced Lockhart in Audible’s audiobook release of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Clearly, he already knows how to channel the character’s signature blend of charm and complete incompetence.
What to Expect from Lockhart
For those who need a quick refresher, Gilderoy Lockhart becomes the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher in the story’s second chapter. He is entirely unqualified for the job, but his obsession with fame keeps him in the spotlight. Fans of the 2002 film adaptation will remember Kenneth Branagh’s memorable take on the character. Now, Harington gets to put his own spin on the hopeless Hogwarts professor.
When Does It Premiere?
The highly anticipated first season, adapting Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, is set to premiere on HBO and Max on December 25. Production for the second season will begin filming later this year, ensuring fans will not have to wait long to see Harington in all his glorious vanity.
