I break betting odds news as it happens, so you’re never left behind when the market moves or a top offer lands.
- Ralph Fiennes may have accidentally confirmed Cillian Murphy’s casting as Voldemort in an interview
- HBO’s Harry Potter reboot is expected to debut in 2026 with new actors across the board
- Murphy now 1/3 favourite in theoretical entertainment betting odds compiled by experts
The Dark Lord Returns: Who Will Play Voldemort in HBO's Harry Potter?
With HBO’s Harry Potter reboot officially underway and casting decisions ramping up, fans are speculating over who will portray one of the most iconic villains in fiction, Lord Voldemort.
In an interview last week on the red carpet, original Voldemort actor Ralph Fiennes appeared to let slip that Cillian Murphy had been cast in the role.
When asked who should replace him, Fiennes responded cryptically: "Well, I’m told they’re already filled, aren’t they?... I think Cillian Murphy is very good. Very good choice. I think they’ve cast it, haven’t they?"
While Warner Bros. and HBO haven’t confirmed anything, the betting markets (hypothetical for now) have responded, with Murphy now a commanding favourite.
Entertainment Betting Sites: Best Bookmakers Compared on Reality TV, Entertainment and Novelty Bets
Who Will Play Lord Voldemort?
| Who Will Play Lord Voldemort? | Odds* | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Cillian Murphy | 1/3 | 75.0% |
| Matthew Macfadyen | 2/1 | 33.3% |
| Matt Smith | 3/1 | 25.0% |
| Tom Hiddleston | 4/1 | 20.0% |
| Paul Bettany | 4/1 | 20.0% |
*Odds compiled by an industry entertainment expert for illustrative purposes only. No UK betting sites are currently offering this market.
Why Cillian Murphy Is the Favourite
Fresh from winning the Oscar for Oppenheimer and with a long history of playing intense, enigmatic characters, Cillian Murphy is seen as a perfect fit for the younger, rise-to-power Voldemort.
His transformation skills and haunting on-screen presence, seen in roles from Peaky Blinders to 28 Days Later, make him a natural successor to Fiennes.
If cast, it would be a major win for HBO’s reboot, bringing prestige and gravitas to the project right out of the gate.
What the expert says...
Who Else Could Be In Contention?
🎭 Matthew Macfadyen (2/1)
Macfadyen brings refined menace and Shakespearean delivery, traits that suit Voldemort’s aristocratic roots. But would he commit to a multi-year fantasy franchise?
🧛 Matt Smith (3/1)
Smith has fantasy and sci-fi credentials from Doctor Who and House of the Dragon. He also has the physicality and eccentric edge to play a dark wizard. But scheduling conflicts could be a barrier.
🪄 Tom Hiddleston (4/1)
The Loki star is long-rumoured for major fantasy roles. His voice and villainy credentials make him a fan favourite, but Marvel and theatre commitments may complicate things.
About HBO’s Harry Potter Reboot
- Announced in 2023, the series is expected to launch in 2027, with each season adapting one of the seven books
- A completely new cast will take over iconic roles from Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint
- J.K. Rowling is onboard as executive producer to ensure canon fidelity
This Voldemort casting news is likely the last major revelation in what has been a long drip-feed of announcements.
Where to Bet on Entertainment Markets
Although no bookmakers are currently taking bets on who will play Voldemort in HBO’s Harry Potter, you can still find markets on major entertainment events, including TV shows, movie awards, and celebrity contests, at top UK betting sites.
To explore more, check out our guide to the best entertainment betting sites or use the latest free bets offers to get started.
Stay Ahead With OLBG Insider
The OLBG Insider | Weekly Betting News, Market Insight & Trends
🧠 Exclusive insights into market movements across entertainment, sport, and politics
📰 Delivered weekly and completely free
🧙 Perfect for fans of fantasy and TV betting specials
Subscribe now and never miss a market-moving moment.
