AceShowbiz - After months filled with speculation and reports, Cillian Murphy has firmly denied rumors that he will portray Voldemort in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV series.

Fans of the Wizarding World have been abuzz about how the iconic villain Voldemort will be depicted in the new series. While the dark wizard does not have a physical appearance until the fourth book, The Goblet of Fire, his sinister presence is hinted at earlier, such as the glimpse of his snake-like face on Professor Quirrell’s head in The Philosopher’s Stone. Additionally, the younger incarnation of Voldemort, Tom Riddle, plays a significant role in The Chamber of Secrets.

Set photos from the series suggest that the first season will include a flashback to the night Voldemort murdered Harry Potter’s parents—a moment originally revealed much later in the book series. This has sparked rumors about the casting of Voldemort, including speculation about whether a voice actor or even a female actor might take on the role.

One of the names frequently mentioned, even by Ralph Fiennes, who famously portrayed Voldemort in the original film franchise, is Cillian Murphy, known for his roles in Oppenheimer and 28 Days Later. However, during a recent interview with The Times (reported via SFFGazette.com), Murphy categorically denied these claims. "I'm categorically not [playing Voldemort]," he stated, adding, "Can you make that the headline?"

This clarification aligns with expectations, as while Murphy has appeared on television, notably in Peaky Blinders, the HBO series seems to favor actors experienced primarily in television roles. Given the series is expected to span nearly a decade-long commitment, it appears unlikely that an A-list movie star like Murphy would headline as Voldemort.

Lord Voldemort, originally Tom Marvolo Riddle, is portrayed as a dark wizard obsessed with immortality and the supremacy of pure-blood witches and wizards. Orphaned and raised in a Muggle orphanage, Riddle’s magical talents earned him a place at Hogwarts, where he excelled academically but ultimately succumbed to darkness and adopted the Voldemort persona.

He created Horcruxes to split his soul and gain immortality, leading the Death Eaters in a violent campaign across the Wizarding World. His attempt to kill infant Harry Potter backfired due to a protective charm, resulting in the destruction of his physical form. After years of absence, Voldemort returns, reigniting his quest for dominance and repeatedly clashing with Harry, the so-called "Chosen One." His downfall results from his arrogance, fear of death, and inability to comprehend love.

For the upcoming series, Dominic McLaughlin has been cast as Harry Potter, with Arabella Stanton set to play Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. The series is written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner, while Mark Mylod will serve as executive producer and direct multiple episodes.

The production is a collaboration between HBO, Brontë Film and TV, and Warner Bros. Television. Executive producers include J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman of Heyday Films.

Harry Potter will debut on HBO in 2027, promising a fresh take on the beloved Wizarding World, though without Cillian Murphy as Voldemort.