Top 25 Harry Potter Characters: Movies and Books

In 2025, the Harry Potter universe continues to captivate audiences worldwide, as iconic as ever. To commemorate this enduring legacy, we've compiled a list of the 25 best characters from the Harry Potter series, encompassing both the beloved books and films. Our selection criteria consider fan reactions, the character's impact on the franchise, their contribution to the series' most memorable moments, and their significance within the Potter lore. If your favorites are missing, we invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below!

Join us in the enchanting Great Hall as we delve into our selection of the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books.

Note: This list does not include characters from Hogwarts Legacy and remains independent of the upcoming Harry Potter TV series.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

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25. Dobby

Dobby the house-elf, whose poignant words, "Such a beautiful place... to be with friends," in Deathly Hallows Part 1, left many fans teary-eyed, is a testament to the power of loyalty and sacrifice. Initially appearing as a somewhat annoying character in Chamber of Secrets, Dobby's true nobility shone through as he tirelessly worked to protect Harry, even at great personal risk. His bravery culminated in his ultimate sacrifice, which remains one of the series' most touching moments.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

Once the most feared dark wizard before Voldemort, Gellert Grindelwald's brief yet impactful appearance in the main series, and his central role in the Fantastic Beasts films, highlight his menacing presence. His complex relationship with Dumbledore and his reign of terror in the early 20th century make him a compelling antagonist, despite the premature end to his story arc in the Fantastic Beasts series.

23. Ginny Weasley

Ginny Weasley's journey from a shy, possessed girl in Chamber of Secrets to a fierce member of Dumbledore's Army and Harry's eventual love interest is both heartwarming and inspiring. Her romance with Harry, rooted in a deep connection to the Weasley family, adds a layer of authenticity and warmth to the series, culminating in her emergence as a strong, determined leader.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and vanity make him a memorable character in the Harry Potter universe. As the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher in Chamber of Secrets, his façade of heroism crumbles, revealing a man more concerned with fame than bravery. His downfall, orchestrated by Harry and his friends, adds a humorous yet poignant critique of false heroism.

21. Albus Severus Potter

Albus Severus Potter, named after two of the most influential wizards in the series, embodies the struggle of living up to a legendary legacy. His story, primarily explored in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, delves into themes of identity and belonging, offering a fresh perspective on the Potter family dynamics.

20. Molly Weasley

Molly Weasley, the epitome of maternal love and magic, provides a nurturing presence in Harry's life. Her unwavering support for Harry and her fierce protection of her family, culminating in her battle against Bellatrix Lestrange, showcase her depth and strength, making her an unforgettable character.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, a grizzled and battle-scarred Auror, brings a sense of gritty realism to the series. His role as a Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, albeit impersonated, and his ultimate sacrifice in Deathly Hallows Part 1, underscore his dedication to the fight against evil.

18. Minerva McGonagall

Professor McGonagall, with her stern yet caring demeanor, is a pillar of Hogwarts. As head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress, she balances discipline with warmth, playing a crucial role in Harry's journey and the defense of the school during the Battle of Hogwarts.

17. Dolores Umbridge

Dolores Umbridge's cruel and oppressive reign at Hogwarts makes her a uniquely detestable villain. Her sadistic methods and bureaucratic tyranny evoke strong emotions, making her a character fans love to hate. Her portrayal in the films, particularly by Imelda Staunton, captures her odious nature perfectly.

16. Lucius Malfoy

Lucius Malfoy, with his wealth and influence, embodies the dark side of the wizarding world's elite. His actions, from planting the diary in Chamber of Secrets to his confrontations with Harry, highlight his sinister role in Voldemort's plans. Jason Isaacs' portrayal adds depth to his arrogance and eventual fall from grace.

15. Newt Scamander

Newt Scamander, the protagonist of the Fantastic Beasts series, brings a unique perspective to the wizarding world. His passion for magical creatures and his role in the larger narrative against Grindelwald make him a beloved character, despite the series' early conclusion.

14. Remus Lupin

Remus Lupin's gentle guidance and personal connection to Harry's parents make him a cherished mentor. His struggle with being a werewolf adds complexity to his character, and his role in the Order of the Phoenix underscores his bravery and loyalty.

13. Luna Lovegood

Luna Lovegood's quirky charm and unwavering support for Harry make her an endearing character. Her involvement in Dumbledore's Army and her unique perspective on the world add depth and humor to the series, making her a fan favorite.

12. Rubeus Hagrid

Hagrid's warm heart and loyalty to Harry provide a comforting presence throughout the series. His role as a friend and protector, despite his occasional clumsiness, endears him to fans, and his emotional scenes with Harry, Ron, and Hermione resonate deeply.

11. Fred and George Weasley

Fred and George Weasley's humor and bravery bring light to the series. Their entrepreneurial spirit and pivotal role in the resistance against Umbridge showcase their courage and wit, making their eventual sacrifice a poignant moment in the narrative.

10. Bellatrix Lestrange

Bellatrix Lestrange's sadistic delight in cruelty makes her a formidable and terrifying antagonist. Her actions, from torturing Neville's parents to her ultimate confrontation with Molly Weasley, cement her as a character fans love to loathe.

9. Draco Malfoy

Draco Malfoy's journey from a schoolyard bully to a conflicted young man tasked with killing Dumbledore adds layers to his character. His struggle with the expectations of his family and the Dark Lord provides a nuanced portrayal of a villain grappling with morality.

8. Sirius Black

Sirius Black's transformation from a feared escaped convict to Harry's beloved godfather is one of the series' most compelling arcs. His bond with Harry and his tragic end leave a lasting impact, emphasizing the themes of family and loss.

7. Voldemort

Lord Voldemort, the embodiment of pure evil, serves as the ultimate antagonist in the series. His fear-inspiring presence and relentless pursuit of power drive the narrative, making his eventual defeat a satisfying culmination of Harry's journey.

6. Neville Longbottom

Neville Longbottom's evolution from a timid student to a courageous hero is a testament to the series' theme of growth and resilience. His bravery in the face of personal tragedy and his pivotal role in the Battle of Hogwarts make him a beloved character.

5. Albus Dumbledore

Albus Dumbledore's role as a wise and powerful mentor to Harry is central to the series. His complex character, marked by both greatness and flaws, adds depth to the narrative. The upcoming HBO Harry Potter TV show will feature John Lithgow as Dumbledore, following in the footsteps of Richard Harris and Michael Gambon.

4. Severus Snape

Severus Snape's enigmatic nature and ultimate sacrifice make him one of the series' most debated characters. His portrayal by Alan Rickman captures the complexity of a man torn between love and loyalty, with Paapa Essiedu rumored to take on the role in the HBO series.

3. Ron Weasley

Ron Weasley's loyalty and humor make him an essential part of the trio. His growth from a sidekick to a hero in his own right, alongside his evolving relationship with Hermione, adds depth to the narrative and endears him to fans.

2. Hermione Granger

Hermione Granger's intelligence and moral compass make her a vital part of the trio. Her development from a rule-abiding student to a fearless fighter for justice showcases her strength and complexity, making her a role model for many.

1. Harry Potter

Harry Potter, the heart of the series, embodies the classic hero's journey. His transformation from an orphaned boy to the "Chosen One" who defeats Voldemort resonates with audiences worldwide. His imperfections and struggles make him relatable, while his courage and resilience inspire. As filming for the new HBO series begins in Spring 2025, fans eagerly await the announcement of the new actor to step into Daniel Radcliffe's iconic role.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

And that's our selection of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our choices? Or is your favorite missing? Share your thoughts in the comments or create your own Harry Potter character tier list using our tool above.

For more Harry Potter content, explore our guides on LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and other Harry Potter gift ideas. We've also compiled a list of the best books similar to Harry Potter if you're looking to dive deeper into the genre.

Upcoming Harry Potter Projects

In addition to the eagerly anticipated Harry Potter HBO TV series, which promises expansive storytelling and a deeper exploration of the Wizarding World, Warner Bros. has announced that Hogwarts Legacy 2 is a top priority following the success of the 2023 action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.