When you think about the Boy Who Lived, one face immediately hits you. It’s the messy black hair, the round glasses, and that lightning-bolt scar. For an entire generation, Daniel Radcliffe didn’t just play a role; he was the role. But if you think he's the only person to ever step into those wizarding robes, you’re actually missing a huge chunk of the story.
Honestly, the question of who played Harry Potter is a bit of a rabbit hole. Most of us grew up watching Daniel age from a wide-eyed eleven-year-old into a battle-hardened young man across eight films. It’s the definitive performance. Yet, as the franchise expanded into stage plays, flashbacks, and even infant cameos, the list of actors who have technically "been" Harry Potter has grown surprisingly long.
The Daniel Radcliffe Era: A Stroke of Luck
It’s wild to think that Daniel Radcliffe almost didn't get the part. He wasn't some kid waiting in a line of thousands at an open casting call. He was actually "discovered" while sitting in a theater audience with his parents. Producer David Heyman saw him and just knew.
His parents were hesitant. Who wouldn't be? The original contract required filming in Los Angeles for several years, which felt like a massive upheaval for a young British family. Eventually, the production moved to the UK, the contract was shortened, and history was made.
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Daniel’s performance is the anchor of the $10 billion film franchise. He brought a certain "haunted" quality to his eyes that the directors loved. But here’s a fun bit of trivia: while he’s famous for those blue eyes, Harry Potter in the books famously has green eyes. They tried to give Daniel green contact lenses, but he had a terrible allergic reaction to them. They even considered CGI-ing his eyes in every single frame, but they eventually realized it was better to just let the actor act.
The Actors You Might Have Missed
While Daniel is the face of the films, he wasn't the only one on screen. Think back to the very first scene in The Sorcerer’s Stone. That tiny baby being left on a doorstep? That wasn't Daniel Radcliffe.
- The Saunders Triplets: These three babies shared the role of infant Harry in the first movie. It's a common trick in Hollywood to use multiples because of strict labor laws regarding how long a baby can be on set.
- Toby Papworth: By the time we get to the final film, The Deathly Hallows: Part 2, we see another infant Harry in the Snape "Prince's Tale" flashbacks. Toby Papworth took over the role here. Funnily enough, his mom later made headlines because he was only paid about £40 for the appearance.
- Josh Herdman (Almost): This is a weird one. Josh Herdman, who played the Slytherin bully Gregory Goyle, actually auditioned for Harry Potter first. Can you imagine a world where Goyle was the hero? Neither can I.
Harry Potter on the Stage: A Different Beast
Once the movies ended in 2011, the story didn't actually stop. J.K. Rowling moved the narrative to the West End and Broadway with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. This introduced us to an adult Harry—overworked, stressed, and struggling to connect with his son, Albus.
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Jamie Parker was the first man to take on the mantle of Adult Harry. He originated the role in London in 2016 and later moved with the production to New York. He didn't look like Daniel Radcliffe, and he didn't try to mimic him. He brought a frantic, paternal energy to the character that won him an Olivier Award.
Since then, dozens of actors have played the part in various productions across the globe. Jamie Glover, Gareth Reeves, and Steve Watters have all stepped into those iconic shoes. Each one brings something different. On stage, the "look" matters less than the ability to handle the heavy emotional lifting of a man living in the shadow of his own legend.
Why the Casting Matters in 2026
We are currently in a weird transition period for the franchise. With the HBO television reboot on the horizon, we’re about to see a brand-new actor take over the role for what could be a decade-long commitment. The search for the next person who played Harry Potter is basically the biggest casting hunt in modern Hollywood history.
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The legacy Daniel Radcliffe left behind is massive. He’s spent the last decade doing everything he can to not be Harry Potter—playing a flatulent corpse in Swiss Army Man, a guy with guns bolted to his hands in Guns Akimbo, and a Tony-winning turn in the musical Merrily We Roll Along. He’s proven there is life after Hogwarts, which is probably a huge relief for whoever gets cast next.
Actionable Insights for Fans
If you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the history of the role, here’s how to stay ahead of the curve:
- Watch the Audition Tapes: If you can find the "Ultimate Edition" DVDs or certain YouTube archives, Daniel's original screen tests with Emma Watson and Rupert Grint are a masterclass in natural chemistry.
- See the Play: If you get the chance to see The Cursed Child, do it. Seeing a different actor play Harry helps you separate the character from the celebrity. It makes the "Wizarding World" feel bigger.
- Follow the Reboot News: HBO is looking for a new trio. Keep an eye on official casting calls if you know a kid who fits the bill—they are specifically looking for authenticity and a new generation of British talent.
The role of Harry Potter isn't just a job; it’s a cultural permanent marker. Whether it's the babies from the early 2000s, the stage veterans of the 2010s, or the next kid who will inevitably become a household name, the character remains larger than any one person. Except maybe Daniel. He’ll always be the one with the "haunted eyes" for most of us.
Next Steps for You: Check out the filmography of the Cursed Child actors to see how they've influenced the role, or look into the upcoming HBO production schedule to see when the next Harry will be officially announced.