Jude Law's Next Career Move Is Exciting Harry Potter Fans Everywhere

Bring on November 2018...

Jude Law has played many iconic roles over the years: Dr Watson, Alfie - even the pope. Now it looks like he can add another to his list, the role of Albus Dumbledore. Yes, really.

Following the tremendous success of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, grossing over £648 million at the box office, it’s hardly surprising that they’ve already started work on the second film in the five-part series.

The sequel promises to live up to the HP hype, with a script written by JK Rowling, David Yates returning to direct and of course Eddie Redmayne reprising his principal role of Newt Scamander.

It is said to be a star-studded production with Johnny Depp even confirmed to play the role of Grindelwald. The most exciting casting news to break however involves Jude Law, with the 44-year old actor recently announced to play the role of a young Dumbledore in the upcoming film.

Played in the Harry Potter series by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon, the role of the wizard is a daunting one to take on, especially with JK Rowling hinting that this could be a key film for the character, suggesting that Dumbledore could be openly gay in this sequel.

‘As fans ourselves, we are thrilled to have Jude Law joining the Fantastic Beasts cast, playing a character so universally adored’, announced Toby Emmerich, president and chief content officer of Warner Bros. Pictures. ‘Jude has been a member of the Warner Bros. family for years and we’re excited to embark on this new adventure with him.’

Director David Yates was also quick to congratulate the actor, announcing, ‘Jude Law is a phenomenally talented actor whose work I have long admired, and I’m looking forward to finally having the opportunity to work with him. I know he will brilliantly capture all the unexpected facets of Albus Dumbledore as J.K. Rowling reveals this very different time in his life.’

Videos you may like:

Video you may like:

Fantastic Beasts 2 is expected to hit the screens in November 2018.

Jenny Proudfoot is an award-winning journalist, specialising in lifestyle, culture, entertainment, international development and politics. After working at Marie Claire UK for seven years - rising from intern to Features Editor - she is now a freelance contributor to the News and Features section.

In 2021, Jenny was named as a winner on the PPA's '30 under 30' list, and was also listed as a rising star in journalism.