Hugh Laurie and Matthew Macfadyen Set to Star in Groundbreaking Full-Cast Harry Potter Audiobooks
Stars Take the Magic Further in New Harry Potter Audiobook Series
No more single narrators—Audible and Pottermore Publishing are making the wizarding world sound bigger than ever. Hugh Laurie, known the world over for 'House,' will slip into Dumbledore's trademark robes, while Matthew Macfadyen, famous for 'Succession,' will send chills down spines as Lord Voldemort. And they won’t be alone. Over 200 voices are coming together for this full-cast production, each playing a hand in bringing J.K. Rowling’s magical universe to life like never before.
This ambitious series, officially titled 'Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions,' isn’t just swapping out the old for some new names. It’s a complete reimagining of what a Harry Potter audiobook can sound like. These editions will weave in original music and layer in real-world sound effects—think footsteps echoing in Hogwarts’ stone halls or the unmistakable crackle of a spell hitting its mark. If Jim Dale’s and Stephen Fry’s beloved solo narrations felt like sharing a cup of tea with a storyteller, this is a full-on feast at the Hogwarts dining hall.
Familiar Faces and Fresh Voices Behind Every Character
Riz Ahmed brings a modern grit to the oily complexities of Professor Snape, while Michelle Gomez lends her distinctive Scottish bite to Professor McGonagall. As for who’s steering the storytelling ship, the versatile Cush Jumbo will be the all-knowing narrator, guiding listeners through every twist and corridor.
The approach to Harry, Ron, and Hermione is especially unique. Their voices will change as the characters grow up—a detail often overlooked in audio. Early Harry is voiced by Frankie Treadaway, with Max Lester joining as Ron and Arabella Stanton—a name to watch, as she’ll also play Hermione on the much-anticipated HBO TV series—in the iconic role. When the trio matures, Jaxon Knopf (Harry), Rhys Mulligan (Ron), and Nina Barker-Francis (Hermione) will step in to capture that evolution.
- Hugh Laurie: Albus Dumbledore
- Matthew Macfadyen: Lord Voldemort
- Riz Ahmed: Professor Snape
- Michelle Gomez: Professor McGonagall
- Cush Jumbo: Narrator
Laurie, in classic fashion, didn’t hide his excitement—calling it a privilege to follow in the footsteps of the actors and narrators before him, from Richard Harris and Michael Gambon to Jude Law and, of course, Stephen Fry.
So when can fans plug in their headphones and vanish into Hogwarts? Mark your calendars: 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone' drops November 4, 2025 on Audible. The releases come fast after that—'Chamber of Secrets' in December and then one book each month until the grand finish with 'Deathly Hallows' in May 2026.
Not all casting secrets are out yet—producers are holding back a few names for an autumn reveal. But the message is clear: the magic is being reimagined, and it’s about to be a dazzling ride for both Potter newcomers and diehard fans. Get your earbuds ready; the Hogwarts Express is making a stop in your living room soon.