Dumbledore was played in the first two Harry Potter films – Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets – by Irish Oscar winner Harris. The role was recast after his death in October 2002, with Michael Gambon playing the role for the remainder of the films.

The Harry Potter TV show might have found its Dumbledore. Actor Mark Rylance, best known for his roles in Steven Spielberg's Bridge of Spies and Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk, is being eyed for the major role.

If all goes as planned, HBO's Harry Potter adaptation is keen on getting Mark Rylance on board as it's Dumbledore. According to Variety, he is at the top of the wishlist of HBO makers. Mark Rylance is currently starring as Thomas Cromwell in the highly-anticipated BBC period drama Wolf Hall: The Mirror and The Light.

Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore is a bit like the Doctor in Doctor Who at this point, with several actors portraying him in Harry Potter projects over the years. From the late greats Richard Harris and Michael Gambon to Jude Law in the movie prequels Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them - the role has been played by some acting giants - so who will follow in their footsteps in the HBO series?