Cillian Murphy has issued a definitive and categorical denial regarding widespread rumours that he is set to portray the iconic villain Lord Voldemort in the forthcoming Harry Potter television series. The Irish actor, 49, directly addressed the persistent speculation in a new interview, firmly shutting down any suggestion of his involvement in the highly anticipated project.
Ralph Fiennes' Viral Comments Fuel Speculation
The rumours gained significant traction earlier this year following comments made by Ralph Fiennes, who famously played Voldemort in the original Harry Potter film adaptations. In a viral TikTok clip shared by the film discussion channel Let's Talk Film back in January, Fiennes appeared to suggest that Murphy's casting was already confirmed. "I'm told [my shoes] are already filled, aren't they? I think Cillian Murphy is very good. A very good choice," Fiennes remarked, inadvertently sparking a frenzy of online speculation and media reports about Murphy taking over the dark wizard role.
Murphy's Categorical Denial
However, in his recent interview with The Times, Murphy left no room for ambiguity. "I'm categorically not," he stated emphatically when asked about the Voldemort casting rumours. The actor even requested that his denial be made the headline of the article, underscoring his desire to definitively clear the air. This clear statement directly contradicts the earlier implications from Fiennes and puts an end to months of conjecture surrounding Murphy's potential participation in the Harry Potter universe.
Harry Potter Series Casting and Controversy
The new Harry Potter television series, which is expected to premiere next year, has already announced several cast members. Newcomers Dominic McLaughlin, Alastair Stout, and Arabella Stanton have been cast in the central roles of the three children, while the adult ensemble includes notable actors such as Janet McTeer, John Lithgow, Nick Frost, Paul Whitehouse, Johnny Flynn, Warwick Davis, and Paapa Essiedu.
However, the casting of the adult actors has attracted criticism and prompted a planned boycott by some viewers. This controversy stems from the involvement of Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling, who serves as an executive producer on the television adaptation. Rowling has become one of the United Kingdom's most prominent voices opposing transgender rights in recent years, and she has donated substantial sums of money to organisations that seek to reduce legal protections for transgender individuals. This stance has led to significant backlash and calls for boycotts of projects associated with the author.
Peaky Blinders Film and Reflections on Success
Elsewhere in the extensive interview, Murphy discussed the upcoming Peaky Blinders film, titled Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, which sees him reprising his iconic role as Birmingham gangster Tommy Shelby. Reflecting on his long association with the character, Murphy noted, "I was 35 when we started [filming the Peaky Blinders TV series] and 48 when we made the film. I've played Tommy for over a quarter of my life, moving from being a youngish man right into the teeth of middle age. It's incredibly rewarding seeing everybody around you get older."
The actor also shared his thoughts on the remarkable and enduring success of the Peaky Blinders franchise, attributing its popularity to the novel-like quality of television as a storytelling medium. "It wasn't an instant hit," Murphy explained. "People thought that it was OK but its second series was when it really clicked and people are still discovering it. A film will come and be hot or not and then it's gone. But TV? It's like a novel – people find it."
Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man is scheduled for cinematic release from 6 March before becoming available for streaming on Netflix from 20 March, marking the next chapter in the beloved series' ongoing legacy.
