Could Lithgow’s Harry Potter role jeopardize the Arthur Mitchell prequel series?
Days after reports surfaced that John Lithgow was in talks to play Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV series, the news is now official. Lithgow, known to Dexter fans as the chilling Trinity Killer, will take on the role of the iconic Hogwarts Headmaster, following in the footsteps of the late Michael Gambon and Richard Harris.
Lithgow on Playing Dumbledore in Harry Potter
In an interview with ScreenRant earlier today, Lithgow confirmed his casting, revealing that the opportunity came as a surprise:
"Well, it came as a total surprise to me. I just got the phone call up at the Sundance Film Festival for yet another film, and it was not an easy decision because it's going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I'm afraid. But I'm very excited. Some wonderful people are turning their attention back to Harry Potter. That's why it's been such a hard decision. I'll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I've said yes."
How Will This Impact the Dexter Trinity Prequel?
With Lithgow now committed to the demanding role of Dumbledore, Dexter fans are wondering what this means for the highly anticipated Trinity Killer prequel.
Back in December, Deadline reported that Dexter showrunner Clyde Phillips had completed writing the entire Trinity prequel series. Lithgow was set to return—not in person, but as the narrator, lending his voice to the early years of Arthur Mitchell.
Could Lithgow’s Harry Potter Role Jeopardize the Dexter Prequel?
Although the scripts for the Trinity prequel are written, the series, first announced in February 2023, has yet to receive an official green light. While the show remains a strong possibility, Lithgow’s commitment to Harry Potter could complicate his involvement. The physically and creatively demanding role of Dumbledore may limit his availability to record the inner monologues of young Trinity.
Lithgow last played the terrifying Arthur Mitchell in Dexter Season 4 (2009) and later reprised his role in Dexter: New Blood (2021).
Will he still have time to return to the Dexter universe once more? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for updates on whether the Dexter: Trinity prequel moves forward—and if Lithgow remains part of the saga.