The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters From the Movies and Books

In 2025, the enchanting world of Harry Potter continues to captivate audiences around the globe, showcasing the enduring legacy of one of the most beloved franchises in history. To honor this timeless saga, we've curated a list of the 25 best characters from both the Harry Potter film and book series. These selections reflect the characters' impact on fans, their significance within the series, and their contribution to some of the most memorable moments in the Harry Potter universe.

Before diving into our list, it's important to understand our selection criteria. We considered overall fan reactions, the characters' influence on both the novels and films, their role in pivotal scenes, and their overall importance to the Harry Potter mythos. If you find that your favorite character didn't make the cut, we encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments section below. Let's know who you think we've overlooked!

Now, let's gather in the Great Hall for a special assembly as we explore the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books. Please note that this list excludes characters from Hogwarts Legacy and will not be affected 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 the house-elf, spoken in Deathly Hallows Part 1, encapsulate the essence of his character. Initially introduced as an irritating yet earnest creature in Chamber of Secrets, Dobby's loyalty and selflessness towards Harry Potter shone through despite his initial clumsiness. His role, though more significant in the books than in the films, culminated in a heart-wrenching sacrifice that highlighted his unwavering dedication to his friends. Dobby's journey from a bound servant to a free and brave hero underscores his enduring impact on the series.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

Once the most feared dark wizard before Voldemort, Gellert Grindelwald's brief yet impactful appearance in the main series belies his deeper role in the Fantastic Beasts films. His complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore and his reign of terror in the early 20th century are central to understanding the broader wizarding world. Although the Fantastic Beasts series was cut short, Grindelwald's legacy as a formidable villain remains a cornerstone of the Harry Potter universe.

23. Ginny Weasley

Ginny Weasley's evolution from a shy schoolgirl to a fierce member of Dumbledore's Army and Harry's eventual partner is a testament to her strength and resilience. Her romance with Harry felt both unexpected and inevitable, providing a heartwarming subplot to the series. While her leadership and bravery were more pronounced in the books, Ginny's character embodies the spirit of a true Gryffindor, making her an essential part of the Harry Potter narrative.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and vanity make him a memorable, albeit frustrating, figure in the series. As the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher in Chamber of Secrets, his facade of heroism crumbles, revealing his true nature as a fraud. Lockhart's comedic yet cautionary tale adds depth to the series, showcasing the dangers of ego and deceit.

21. Albus Severus Potter

Named after two of the most influential wizards in history, Albus Severus Potter embodies the pressures of legacy and identity. While his story is primarily explored in the stage play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, his brief appearances in the films hint at a character grappling with his father's fame and his own destiny. Albus Severus's journey adds a new layer to the ongoing narrative of the Potter family.

20. Molly Weasley

Molly Weasley is the epitome of maternal warmth and strength in the Harry Potter series. Her nurturing of Harry, treating him as one of her own, provides him with the family he desperately needed. Beyond her caring nature, Molly's fierce courage shines through in her role within the Order of the Phoenix and her iconic confrontation with Bellatrix Lestrange. She is a beacon of love and bravery in a world fraught with darkness.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, a grizzled and battle-scarred Auror, brings a rugged intensity to the series. His brief stint as a Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, marred by his impersonation by Barty Crouch Jr., underscores his dedication to the fight against evil. Moody's ultimate sacrifice in Deathly Hallows Part 1 cements his status as a true hero in the Harry Potter saga.

18. Minerva McGonagall

Professor Minerva McGonagall, with her strict yet fair demeanor, is a cornerstone of Hogwarts. Her role as Deputy Headmistress and head of Gryffindor house reflects her dedication to nurturing young witches and wizards. McGonagall's involvement in the Order of the Phoenix and her unwavering support for Harry and his friends highlight her as a formidable ally and mentor.

17. Dolores Umbridge

Dolores Umbridge, the epitome of bureaucratic evil, evokes a visceral reaction from fans. Her sadistic punishments and oppressive regime at Hogwarts make her one of the most hated yet compelling characters in the series. Imelda Staunton's portrayal captures Umbridge's insidious nature, making her a standout antagonist in the Harry Potter universe.

16. Lucius Malfoy

Lucius Malfoy's arrogance and cunning make him a formidable adversary. As a high-ranking Death Eater, his actions, including planting Tom Riddle's diary in Chamber of Secrets, drive significant plot developments. Jason Isaacs's portrayal adds depth to Lucius, showcasing his fall from grace and his unwavering loyalty to Voldemort.

15. Newt Scamander

Newt Scamander introduces audiences to the broader world of magical creatures in the Fantastic Beasts series. His awkwardness and passion for his work make him a unique and endearing protagonist. While the premature end of the series left his character underdeveloped, Newt's contributions to the wizarding world remain significant.

14. Remus Lupin

Remus Lupin's role as a compassionate Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher provides Harry with much-needed guidance and support. His personal connection to Harry's parents and his struggle with his werewolf identity add depth to his character. Lupin's bravery and loyalty, especially within the Order of the Phoenix, solidify his place as a beloved figure in the series.

13. Luna Lovegood

Luna Lovegood's quirky charm and unwavering belief in the extraordinary make her a fan favorite. Her friendship with Harry and her crucial role in Dumbledore's Army highlight her bravery and loyalty. Luna's unique perspective and resilience in the face of adversity make her an inspiring character in the Harry Potter series.

12. Rubeus Hagrid

Rubeus Hagrid's unwavering loyalty and warmth make him a beloved figure in Harry's life. As a friend and confidant, Hagrid provides Harry with a sense of belonging and support. His emotional connection to Harry, Hermione, and Ron, coupled with his adventurous spirit, makes Hagrid an integral part of the Harry Potter narrative.

11. Fred and George Weasley

Fred and George Weasley's mischievous antics and entrepreneurial spirit bring humor and joy to the series. Their bravery and loyalty, particularly during the Battle of Hogwarts, showcase their true heroism. The twins' ultimate sacrifice and their unwavering support for Harry and his friends cement their place as cherished characters in the Harry Potter universe.

10. Bellatrix Lestrange

Bellatrix Lestrange's sadistic joy in evil makes her one of the most terrifying villains in the series. Her brutal actions, including the torture of Neville's parents and the murder of Sirius Black, underscore her malevolence. Bellatrix's ultimate fate serves as a fitting end to her reign of terror, making her a memorable and impactful character.

9. Draco Malfoy

Draco Malfoy's journey from a schoolyard bully to a conflicted young man adds complexity to the series. His struggle with his family's expectations and his eventual refusal to kill Dumbledore highlight his internal conflict. Draco's character arc showcases the nuances of morality and redemption, making him a compelling figure in the Harry Potter saga.

8. Sirius Black

Sirius Black's transformation from a wrongly accused prisoner to a loyal godfather to Harry is a poignant storyline. His rebellious spirit and deep connection to Harry's parents make him a beloved character. Despite his tragic end, Sirius's influence on Harry and his role in the fight against Voldemort remain significant.

7. Voldemort

Lord Voldemort, or Tom Marvolo Riddle, embodies pure evil in the Harry Potter series. His relentless pursuit of power and immortality drives the central conflict of the story. Voldemort's chilling presence and the fear he instills in the wizarding world make him an unforgettable antagonist, whose defeat is a testament to the power of love and courage.

6. Neville Longbottom

Neville Longbottom's transformation from a timid student to a brave hero is one of the most inspiring arcs in the series. His participation in Dumbledore's Army and his crucial role in the Battle of Hogwarts showcase his courage and loyalty. Neville's journey from underdog to leader exemplifies the theme of personal growth and resilience.

5. Albus Dumbledore

Albus Dumbledore's wisdom and guidance make him a legendary figure in the Harry Potter series. His mentorship of Harry and his pivotal role in the fight against Voldemort underscore his importance. Despite his flaws, Dumbledore's legacy as a great wizard and compassionate leader remains a cornerstone of the series. John Lithgow is set to portray Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter TV show, stepping into the iconic role previously played by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon.

4. Severus Snape

Severus Snape's complex and enigmatic nature makes him one of the most debated characters in the series. His apparent cruelty towards Harry belies his deep loyalty and love for Lily Potter. Snape's ultimate sacrifice and the revelation of his true intentions add depth to his character, making him an unforgettable figure in the Harry Potter universe. Alan Rickman's portrayal of Snape is iconic, and Paapa Essiedu is reportedly in consideration for the role in the HBO series.

3. Ron Weasley

Ron Weasley's loyalty and humor make him an essential part of the trio. His journey from a jealous friend to a brave hero showcases his growth and resilience. Ron's comic relief and his evolving relationship with Hermione add depth to the series, making him a beloved character among fans.

2. Hermione Granger

Hermione Granger's intelligence and bravery make her an indispensable ally to Harry. Her evolution from a rule-abiding student to a fearless fighter for justice highlights her strength and determination. Hermione's unwavering loyalty and her complex relationship with Ron add richness to the series, making her a standout character.

1. Harry Potter

Harry Potter's journey from an orphaned boy to the chosen one who defeats Voldemort is the heart of the series. His courage, resilience, and capacity for love resonate with audiences worldwide. Despite his flaws, Harry's unwavering determination and his quest for justice make him a timeless hero. Daniel Radcliffe's portrayal of Harry has left a lasting impact, and the search for his successor in the HBO series is eagerly anticipated.

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 that Hogwarts Legacy 2 is one of its "biggest priorities" following the success of 2023's action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.