The upcoming Harry Potter TV reboot has stirred up fresh controversy after reports surfaced that Lord Voldemort could be reimagined in an unexpected way. According to Comicbook, the casting process for the franchise’s most feared villain is open to actors “of any gender”, raising the possibility of a female Dark Lord.

The news has not gone down well with many long-time fans. Social media was quick to react, with one frustrated user writing, “Put the whole thing in trash.” Others argued that changing Voldemort’s gender would undermine the character’s origins as Tom Marvolo Riddle, calling the move more of a “diversity checklist” than a creative decision.

This isn’t the first time the reboot has run into fan outrage. When Paapa Essiedu was announced as the new Severus Snape, many viewers said they struggled to accept anyone other than Alan Rickman in the role. Some also pointed out the tricky optics of placing Harry Potter opposite a Black Snape, with the narrative involving Harry’s strong dislike of him.

For some, these choices highlight the challenges of balancing inclusivity with faithfulness to JK Rowling’s original canon. The Voldemort debate has only added to the tension, showing just how protective audiences remain of the wizarding world they grew up with.

The series does not yet have an official release date but is widely expected to premiere in 2027. Until then, each casting rumour seems destined to spark heated conversations, underscoring both the enduring cultural weight of Harry Potter and the risks of reimagining it for a new era.