Gender-Swapped Voldemort? Cynthia Erivo Takes Lead As Odds Tighten For 'Harry Potter' Reboot

With production underway on HBO’s highly anticipated "Harry Potter" reboot series, one question is dominating fan discussions across social media: Who will play Lord Voldemort? As casting buzz intensifies for the 2027 release, new Voldemort casting odds reveal a shocking frontrunner, and it’s a name no one expected. Award-winning actress and "Wicked" star Cynthia Erivo has surged into the No. 1 spot as the leading candidate to play the Dark Lord, igniting speculation about a female Voldemort for the first time in franchise history. As HBO films Season 1 and fast-tracks Season 2 development, the race to cast the Wizarding World’s most infamous villain is heating up faster than ever.

As production continues at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, betting markets have shifted dramatically. "Wicked" star Cynthia Erivo has officially moved into firm favorite status at –125, giving her an estimated 55.6% chance of securing the part, per the report sent to The Blast.

Erivo’s meteoric rise in the odds reflects growing speculation that HBO may be leaning toward a gender-swapped Voldemort, a first in the franchise’s history. Given her powerhouse vocals, dramatic intensity, and Oscar-nominated gravitas, fans have pointed out that Erivo could bring a chilling, unforgettable take on the Dark Lord.

Right behind her is the internet’s long-running fan-favorite choice, Tilda Swinton, sitting at +150. Known for her icy mystique and transformative abilities, Swinton remains a strong contender, but for the first time, she’s no longer the frontrunner.

The rest of the pack is tightening fast:

• Cynthia Erivo –125
• Tilda Swinton +150
• Matthew Macfadyen +260
• Gwendoline Christie +325
• Paul Bettany +375

Entertainment insider Daniel Richtman recently reported that auditions are now open to both male and female actors, signaling a meaningful shake-up in casting direction. With this revelation, betting markets immediately shortened Erivo and Swinton’s odds and sent speculation into overdrive.

According to Marc Sibbons, Entertainment Expert at Casino Guru, the Voldemort battle is shaping up to be unlike anything the Wizarding World has seen. “The battle to play Voldemort is heating up, and Cynthia Erivo pulling ahead as the odds-on favorite is one of the most intriguing developments yet,” Sibbons said in an email sent to The Blast. “Her current superstar status as well as her ability to deliver intensity and gravitas puts her firmly at the front of the pack, though Tilda Swinton remains a formidable second favorite.”

He also noted how unpredictable the race has become, adding, “With Matthew Macfadyen, Gwendoline Christie, and Paul Bettany all tightening in the mid-market, this is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable casting races of the year.”

As soon as news broke that HBO may be considering both male and female actors for the role of Voldemort, social media erupted with mixed, and in some cases very intense, reactions. While some fans are excited by the possibility of a bold reinterpretation, others are calling it a step too far.

Several viewers expressed immediate frustration, with one writing, “And that would be the last straw for me.” Another added, “What a trainwreck,” as discussions about book accuracy and creative liberties quickly took over comment threads.

Several longtime fans pushed back on the idea of a gender-swapped Dark Lord entirely. “Respectfully, how is Tom Riddle anywhere close to a gender-neutral name? Already ignoring the source material,” one critic argued, referencing Voldemort’s real identity. Others questioned HBO’s priorities, with another user commenting, “Make this show as progressive as possible to appease fans that do not like J.K. Rowling.”

The reboot, led by showrunner Francesca Gardiner ("His Dark Materials") and "Succession" director Mark Mylod, is targeting a 2027 release. Newcomers Dominic McLaughlin, Alastair Stout, and Arabella Stanton will star as Harry, Ron, and Hermione, ushering in a fresh era for the Wizarding World.

HBO chairman and CEO Casey Bloys recently confirmed that Season 2 writing is already underway, even as Season 1 continues filming. “There’ll be a break in there, but we’re going to do whatever we can to not have a huge gap,” Bloys said, referencing the child cast and the need to keep momentum for audiences.

He emphasized the scale of the production, noting, “It is a big show, lots of special effects, obviously, massive operation, but we’re going to do what we can.”

HBO has long stated that the plan is for each season to follow one of J.K. Rowling’s novels, signaling a seven-season arc.