In 2025, the Harry Potter franchise continues to captivate fans worldwide, celebrating its enduring legacy through both the beloved books and films. We've delved deep into the magical world of Harry Potter to compile a list of the 25 best characters, taking into account fan reactions, impact on the franchise, significance in key moments, and their overall role in the Potter mythos. If you're wondering why some of your favorites didn't make the cut, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments! Now, let's step into the Great Hall and explore the 25 best characters from the Harry Potter universe, as seen in both the books and movies.
Note: This list does not include characters from Hogwarts Legacy and remains unaffected by the upcoming Harry Potter series.
The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters
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25. Dobby
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Dobby, the devoted house-elf, captures hearts with his selfless actions. Initially a source of frustration for Harry in "The Chamber of Secrets," Dobby's true loyalty and noble intentions shine through, particularly in his dramatic sacrifice in "The Deathly Hallows Part 1." His final words, "Such a beautiful place... to be with friends," encapsulate his unwavering dedication to Harry and the cause of freedom, making his death one of the series' most poignant moments.
24. Gellert Grindelwald
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Gellert Grindelwald, once the most feared dark wizard before Voldemort, leaves a lasting impression despite his limited screen time in the main series. His full menacing potential is explored in the "Fantastic Beasts" films, showcasing his reign of terror and complex relationship with Dumbledore. Although the series ended prematurely, Grindelwald's legacy as a formidable villain remains strong.
23. Ginny Weasley
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Ginny Weasley evolves from a shy girl to a fierce fighter and Harry's eventual love interest. Her journey from being possessed by Tom Riddle to becoming a key member of Dumbledore's Army showcases her strength and resilience. While the films might not capture her full leadership qualities, her romance with Harry feels both unexpected and destined, adding depth to the series.
22. Gilderoy Lockhart
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Gilderoy Lockhart, the charming yet fraudulent wizard, adds humor and a touch of vanity to the series. His exaggerated claims and eventual exposure as a fraud during his tenure as Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts are both entertaining and revealing. Lockhart's character underscores the theme of appearances versus reality in the wizarding world.
21. Albus Severus Potter
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Albus Severus Potter, named after two of the most significant wizards in history, struggles with the weight of his legacy. As Harry and Ginny's son, his journey at Hogwarts, detailed in "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," explores themes of identity and the pressure of living up to famous names. His character adds a new layer to the ongoing Potter saga.
20. Molly Weasley
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Molly Weasley embodies the perfect magical mother, offering warmth and support to Harry. Her nurturing nature and fierce protectiveness shine, particularly when she confronts Bellatrix Lestrange. Molly's role in the Order of the Phoenix and her unwavering support for her family and Harry make her an unforgettable character.
19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody
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Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, the grizzled ex-Auror, brings a sense of battle-hardened wisdom to Hogwarts. His brief stint as a Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, marred by his impersonation by Barty Crouch Jr., adds intrigue and suspense. Moody's dedication to the fight against Voldemort and his ultimate sacrifice in "The Deathly Hallows Part 1" solidify his place in the series.
18. Minerva McGonagall
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Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet caring head of Gryffindor, balances discipline with warmth. Her role in shaping Harry and his friends at Hogwarts is crucial, and her involvement in the Order of the Phoenix showcases her bravery. McGonagall's unwavering commitment to Hogwarts and its students makes her a beloved figure in the series.
17. Dolores Umbridge
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Dolores Umbridge, the epitome of bureaucratic evil, elicits a visceral reaction from fans. Her sadistic methods of punishment and oppressive rule over Hogwarts in "The Order of the Phoenix" make her a uniquely detestable villain. J.K. Rowling's creation of Umbridge highlights the danger of those who abuse power, making her an unforgettable character.
16. Lucius Malfoy
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Lucius Malfoy, the arrogant and influential pure-blood wizard, embodies the dark side of the wizarding elite. His role in "The Chamber of Secrets" and his eventual downfall in "The Deathly Hallows" showcase his complexity and the consequences of his loyalty to Voldemort. Lucius's character adds depth to the narrative of power and corruption.
15. Newt Scamander
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Newt Scamander, the protagonist of the "Fantastic Beasts" series, offers a fresh perspective on the wizarding world. His passion for magical creatures and his unique personality set him apart from other heroes. Although the "Fantastic Beasts" series was cut short, Newt's character remains a beloved addition to the Potter universe.
14. Remus Lupin
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Remus Lupin, the compassionate werewolf and Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, provides Harry with much-needed guidance and support. His personal connection to Harry's parents and his struggle with his lycanthropy add layers to his character. Lupin's bravery and dedication to the fight against Voldemort make him a standout figure.
13. Luna Lovegood
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Luna Lovegood, the quirky and insightful Ravenclaw, brings a unique charm to the series. Her acceptance of her own eccentricity and her unwavering loyalty to her friends make her a beloved character. Luna's role in Dumbledore's Army and her friendship with Harry highlight the value of individuality and courage.
12. Rubeus Hagrid
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Rubeus Hagrid, the gentle giant and keeper of keys at Hogwarts, serves as a steadfast friend and protector to Harry. His warmth and loyalty, despite his occasional clumsiness, make him an endearing character. Hagrid's emotional connection to Harry and his role in the trio's journey add heart to the series.
11. Fred and George Weasley
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Fred and George Weasley, the mischievous twins, bring humor and bravery to the series. Their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to pranking add levity, while their involvement in the fight against Voldemort showcases their courage. Fred's ultimate sacrifice underscores the twins' impact on the narrative.
10. Bellatrix Lestrange
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Bellatrix Lestrange, the sadistic Death Eater, embodies pure evil with her relish for cruelty. Her role in torturing Neville's parents, killing Sirius Black, and murdering Dobby cements her status as a terrifying villain. Bellatrix's character adds a chilling dimension to the battle against Voldemort.
9. Draco Malfoy
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Draco Malfoy, Harry's nemesis at Hogwarts, evolves from a schoolyard bully to a conflicted young man. His struggle with his family's allegiance to Voldemort and his eventual refusal to kill Dumbledore reveal his complexity. Draco's character adds depth to the theme of redemption and choice.
8. Sirius Black
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Sirius Black, Harry's godfather, represents the bond of family and the fight for justice. His wrongful imprisonment and eventual escape from Azkaban add suspense, while his relationship with Harry provides emotional depth. Sirius's tragic death underscores the sacrifices made in the battle against evil.
7. Voldemort
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Lord Voldemort, the ultimate embodiment of evil, drives the central conflict of the series. His fear-inspiring presence and relentless pursuit of power make him a formidable antagonist. Voldemort's backstory and his inability to understand love and friendship add complexity to his character, making him a compelling villain.
6. Neville Longbottom
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Neville Longbottom, the unlikely hero, transforms from a shy and awkward student to a brave defender of Hogwarts. His journey from self-doubt to leadership in Dumbledore's Army and his pivotal role in the final battle against Voldemort showcase his growth and courage. Neville's character embodies the theme of inner strength.
5. Albus Dumbledore
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Albus Dumbledore, the wise and powerful headmaster of Hogwarts, serves as a mentor and guiding force for Harry. His eccentric yet profound nature, combined with his past struggles and ultimate sacrifice, make him an iconic figure. Dumbledore's legacy and his complex relationship with Harry add depth to the series.
John Lithgow has been cast as Professor Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter TV show, stepping into the iconic role previously portrayed by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon.
4. Severus Snape
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Severus Snape, the enigmatic and misunderstood potions master, captivates fans with his complex motives and tragic backstory. His harsh treatment of Harry and eventual revelation as a double agent add layers to his character. Snape's ultimate sacrifice and his undying love for Lily Potter make him a deeply impactful figure.
Paapa Essiedu is reportedly a front runner to play Snape in the upcoming HBO series, following Alan Rickman's iconic portrayal.
3. Ron Weasley
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Ron Weasley, Harry's loyal best friend, brings humor and heart to the series. His journey from a self-conscious sidekick to a brave and loyal ally showcases his growth. Ron's struggles with jealousy and his eventual return to support Harry in their darkest moments highlight his importance to the trio's dynamic.
2. Hermione Granger
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Hermione Granger, the brilliant and courageous witch, serves as the voice of reason and moral compass for the trio. Her intelligence and willingness to break rules for the greater good make her a vital part of their adventures. Hermione's evolving relationship with Ron and her unwavering support for Harry solidify her as a beloved character.
1. Harry Potter
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Harry Potter, the boy who lived, embodies the ultimate underdog story of good versus evil. His journey from an orphaned boy to a courageous hero resonates with fans worldwide. Harry's flaws, friendships, and sacrifices add depth to his character, making him a relatable and inspiring protagonist.
Daniel Radcliffe's portrayal of Harry left big shoes to fill, with over 32,000 children auditioning for the lead roles in the upcoming HBO series, set to start filming in Spring 2025 and premiere on HBO Max in 2026.
The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters
And there you have it—our selection of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our choices, or do you think someone's missing? Share your thoughts in the comments or use our interactive tool to create your own Harry Potter character tier list.
For more Harry Potter content, check out our guides on LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and other Harry Potter gift ideas. If you're eager to explore more magical worlds, we've also compiled a list of the best books like Harry Potter.
Upcoming Harry Potter
In addition to the eagerly anticipated Harry Potter HBO TV show, which promises to delve deeper into the wizarding world with "big-picture storytelling," Warner Bros. has confirmed that Hogwarts Legacy 2 is among their top priorities following the success of the 2023 action RPG, Hogwarts Legacy.
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