Cillian Murphy may have denied it, but actor Ralph Fiennes still remains positive about Murphy's role as Voldemort in the Harry Potter series at HBO. The actor said in a recent interaction that the Peaky Blinders star has been chosen to play Voldemort in the upcoming series adaptation of JK Rowling's books. Speaking on the red carpet at a public event, a reporter asked Fiennes about who should play the same character in the series as the one he is known for in the film adaptation of Rowling's books. In response, Fiennes said that he has been told that Murphy has already been cast in the role. Fiennes reiterated his opinion about Murphy being an excellent choice to portray Voldemort. However, the Conclave actor seemed to reconsider his words as he asked, "I think they have cast it, haven't they? I thought they had."

Despite Fiennes doubting himself after his seemingly offhand remark, it has triggered further speculation about Murphy's involvement in the series. Interestingly, Murphy himself denied the rumour in a recent appearance on the podcast Happy Sad Confused by Josh Horowitz. The Peaky Blinders star said that his children made him aware of the speculation on the internet, but that he had no idea about it.

"It’s just really hard to follow anything Ralph Fiennes does. The man is an absolute acting legend, so good luck to whoever’s gonna fill those shoes," Murphy said at the time. He also quipped about his reluctance to appear onscreen as Voldemort with a bizarre-looking nose, saying he is "very attached" to his own nose. Murphy is known for keeping a rather reticent facade in public appearances, especially interviews, making it hard to know details about his upcoming projects.

Recently, Fiennes said on the show Watch What Happens Live that Murphy is "a fantastic actor" and expressed his support for choosing the actor for the iconic role.