Top 25 Harry Potter Characters: Books vs. Movies

In 2025, the Harry Potter series continues to enchant fans worldwide, as iconic as ever. To honor this enduring legacy, we've compiled a list of the 25 best characters from both the beloved Harry Potter books and films. Our selection criteria encompass fan reactions, the characters' impact on the franchise, their significance in key moments, and their role in the broader Potter mythology. If your favorites are absent from our list, share your thoughts in the comments below!

Join us in the Great Hall for this special assembly as we explore the top 25 Harry Potter characters from both the novels and the cinematic adaptations.

Note: This list does not include characters from Hogwarts Legacy and will remain unaffected by the upcoming Harry Potter series.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

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25. Dobby

"Such a beautiful place... to be with friends." These poignant words from Dobby, spoken in Deathly Hallows Part 1, encapsulate the heart of this beloved house-elf. Initially appearing in Chamber of Secrets, Dobby's quirky and self-sacrificing nature may have been off-putting at first, but his unwavering loyalty and bravery shone through, especially in his ultimate sacrifice to save Harry and his friends. Dobby's impact is deeply felt, particularly in the books where his frequent appearances showcase his kindness and dedication.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

Once the most feared wizard before Voldemort, Gellert Grindelwald's presence in the main series is brief but impactful. His full malevolence is explored in the Fantastic Beasts series, which delves into his reign of terror in the early 20th century and his complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore. Despite the series' premature end, Grindelwald's legacy as a formidable antagonist remains undeniable.

23. Ginny Weasley

Ginny Weasley's journey from a timid schoolgirl to a fierce member of Dumbledore's Army is inspiring. Her romance with Harry feels both unexpected and inevitable, grounding Harry within the Weasley family. Though her leadership in the rebellion is less highlighted in the films, her strength and determination are unmistakable, making her a standout character in the series.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

Gilderoy Lockhart, with his charming facade and self-aggrandizing nature, provides comic relief and a cautionary tale about vanity. His tenure as Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts is marked by incompetence and deceit, ultimately exposed by Harry and his friends, adding a layer of humor and intrigue to the series.

21. Albus Severus Potter

Named after two of the most significant wizards in history, Albus Severus Potter embodies the struggle between fame and anonymity, and the weight of legacy. While the films offer only a glimpse of his story, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on stage provides a deeper look into his adventures and challenges at Hogwarts.

20. Molly Weasley

Molly Weasley is the epitome of warmth and maternal love, extended generously to Harry, an orphan in need. Her nurturing presence is a constant source of comfort, yet she's also a fierce protector, as evidenced by her confrontation with Bellatrix Lestrange. Molly's blend of kindness and courage makes her an unforgettable character.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, a grizzled veteran of the wizarding wars, brings a unique blend of paranoia and bravery to the series. Despite his eccentricities, his dedication to teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts and protecting Harry from Voldemort's forces underscores his importance in the fight against evil.

18. Minerva McGonagall

As the head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress, Professor McGonagall balances strict discipline with a softer side, endearing her to students and readers alike. Her unwavering loyalty to Dumbledore and Hogwarts, coupled with her role in the Order of the Phoenix, cements her as a pivotal figure in the series.

17. Dolores Umbridge

Dolores Umbridge is perhaps the most loathed character in the series, her cruelty and bureaucratic tyranny making her a formidable antagonist. Her impact on Hogwarts and Harry is profound, evoking strong reactions from fans and highlighting J.K. Rowling's skill in crafting unforgettable villains.

16. Lucius Malfoy

Lucius Malfoy's arrogance and cunning make him a compelling antagonist. His actions in Chamber of Secrets set crucial events in motion, and his fall from grace in Deathly Hallows Part 1 adds depth to his character. Jason Isaacs' portrayal captures Lucius's haughty demeanor, enhancing his role in the series.

15. Newt Scamander

Newt Scamander, the protagonist of the Fantastic Beasts series, offers a fresh perspective on the wizarding world. His passion for magical creatures and his quirky personality set him apart, making him a beloved character despite the series' early conclusion.

14. Remus Lupin

Remus Lupin provides Harry with a much-needed mentor and friend, offering insights into his parents' lives. As a werewolf, Lupin's struggle to control his darker nature adds depth to his character, making his eventual role in the Order of the Phoenix and his relationship with Tonks all the more poignant.

13. Luna Lovegood

Luna Lovegood's eccentricity and unwavering belief in the extraordinary make her a cherished character. Her acceptance into Dumbledore's Army and her friendship with Harry highlight her bravery and compassion, despite being often misunderstood.

12. Rubeus Hagrid

Hagrid's warm-hearted nature and loyalty to Harry provide a comforting presence throughout the series. His adventures with Harry, Ron, and Hermione, and his role in their maturation, underscore his significance as a beloved character and a bridge between the magical and human worlds.

11. Fred and George Weasley

The Weasley twins, Fred and George, bring humor and mischief to the series, yet their bravery and loyalty shine through, especially during their stand against Umbridge. Their entrepreneurial spirit and ultimate sacrifices highlight their enduring impact on the story.

10. Bellatrix Lestrange

Bellatrix Lestrange's sadistic delight in cruelty makes her a chilling antagonist. Her actions, including the torture of Neville's parents and the murder of Sirius Black, cement her as one of the series' most terrifying characters, whose demise is both satisfying and poignant.

9. Draco Malfoy

Draco Malfoy serves as Harry's foil, embodying privilege and prejudice. His complex journey from schoolyard bully to a reluctant participant in Voldemort's plans adds layers to his character, culminating in a moment of redemption that resonates deeply with fans.

8. Sirius Black

Sirius Black's transformation from a feared fugitive to a loving godfather to Harry is one of the series' most compelling arcs. His rebellious spirit and the bond he forms with Harry before his tragic end make him a beloved and impactful character.

7. Voldemort

Lord Voldemort, or Tom Marvolo Riddle, is the epitome of evil in the series. His relentless pursuit of power and immortality, coupled with his chilling presence, make him an unforgettable villain whose threat looms large over Harry's journey.

6. Neville Longbottom

Neville Longbottom's transformation from a timid boy to a courageous hero is one of the series' most inspiring stories. His bravery during the Battle of Hogwarts and his personal connection to the fight against Voldemort make him a standout character.

5. Albus Dumbledore

Albus Dumbledore, with his wisdom and eccentric charm, serves as a guiding light for Harry. His complex character, revealed through his battles with Voldemort and his ultimate sacrifice, underscores his importance in the series. John Lithgow's upcoming portrayal in the HBO series adds to the anticipation surrounding this iconic character.

4. Severus Snape

Severus Snape's enigmatic nature and complex motivations make him one of the most debated characters in the series. His ultimate sacrifice and the revelation of his deep love for Lily Potter cement his place as a pivotal and beloved figure. Alan Rickman's portrayal remains iconic, with Paapa Essiedu rumored to take on the role in the upcoming HBO series.

3. Ron Weasley

Ron Weasley's loyalty and humor make him an essential part of the trio. His growth from a comic relief character to a brave hero, alongside his evolving relationship with Hermione, adds depth to his role in the series, endearing him to fans worldwide.

2. Hermione Granger

Hermione Granger's intelligence and moral compass make her an indispensable ally to Harry. Her growth from a rule-abiding student to a fearless fighter for justice, combined with her dynamic relationship with Ron, highlights her as a pivotal character in the series.

1. Harry Potter

Harry Potter, the heart of the series, embodies the ultimate underdog story. His journey from an orphaned boy to the chosen one who battles the forces of darkness resonates with fans. His imperfections and the support he receives from his surrogate family and friends make his character deeply relatable and beloved. With Daniel Radcliffe's iconic portrayal, the upcoming HBO series, set to start filming in Spring 2025, will introduce a new actor to this iconic role, chosen from over 32,000 hopefuls.

The 25 best Harry Potter characters

And that's our pick of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our picks? Or is your favorite missing? Let us know in the comments or create your own Harry Potter character tier list using our handy tool above.

Looking for more Harry Potter? Take a look at our guides to LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and more Harry Potter gift ideas. We've also gathered a list of the best books like Harry Potter if you're looking to dive further into the genre.

Upcoming Harry Potter

In addition to the Harry Potter HBO TV show, which will boast "big-picture storytelling" and "explore the Wizarding World more in depth than you can in a two hour film," Warner Bros. has confirmed Hogwarts Legacy 2 is one of its "biggest priorities" following the success of 2023's action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.