Top 25 Harry Potter Characters: Movies and Books

In 2025, the Harry Potter franchise remains as captivating as ever, and we've curated a list of the 25 best characters from both the beloved books and films. These selections are based on fan reactions, their impact on the series, their role in pivotal moments, and their importance to the overarching narrative. If you don't see your favorite on the list, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section!

Join us in the enchanting Great Hall as we delve into the top 25 Harry Potter characters from the iconic movies and novels.

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

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

26 Images

25. Dobby

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

"Such a beautiful place... to be with friends." This poignant line from Dobby in Deathly Hallows Part 1 evokes strong emotions, marking one of his last moments. Initially, Dobby may have seemed annoying, but his noble intentions and loyalty, especially towards Harry, shine through. While his role is smaller in the films than in the books, his ultimate sacrifice to save Harry and friends from Bellatrix Lestrange remains one of the series' most touching scenes.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Once the most feared villain in the wizarding world, Grindelwald's brief appearance in the main series showcases his power. His true menace is explored in the Fantastic Beasts films, where his reign of terror and complex relationship with Dumbledore are highlighted. Unfortunately, the series was cut short, leaving his story untold.

23. Ginny Weasley

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Ginny's journey from a lovesick girl in Chamber of Secrets to a fierce member of Dumbledore's Army is captivating. Her romance with Harry feels both unexpected and destined, rooted in the family that embraced him. Her strength and leadership are more pronounced in the books, making her a standout character.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Lockhart's charm and charisma mask his incompetence and deceit. His tenure as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts reveals his true colors, as Harry and friends expose his lies. His character adds a humorous yet cautionary tale to the series.

21. Albus Severus Potter

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

The son of Harry and Ginny, Albus Severus grapples with his famous lineage and the weight of his namesakes. While the films only hint at his story, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on stage provides a fuller picture of his struggles and adventures at Hogwarts.

20. Molly Weasley

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Molly Weasley embodies the perfect, nurturing mother, offering Harry the love and warmth he desperately needs. Beyond her caring nature, she shows immense courage as a member of the Order of the Phoenix, especially when defending her family against Bellatrix Lestrange.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Mad-Eye Moody, a grizzled veteran Auror, brings his battle scars and paranoia to Hogwarts as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. Despite being impersonated by Barty Crouch Jr., the real Moody remains a steadfast protector of Harry until his heroic death in Deathly Hallows Part 1.

18. Minerva McGonagall

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

As the head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress, McGonagall's strict yet caring nature makes her a beloved figure. Her dedication to Hogwarts and the Order of the Phoenix, along with her role in Harry's life, solidify her as a crucial character in the series.

17. Dolores Umbridge

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Dolores Umbridge's presence evokes a visceral reaction, making her a memorable villain. Her sadistic punishments and bureaucratic cruelty at Hogwarts make her more detestable than Voldemort to many fans. Imelda Staunton's portrayal captures her insidious nature perfectly.

16. Lucius Malfoy

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Lucius Malfoy's arrogance and influence in the wizarding world mask his dark allegiance to Voldemort. His actions, such as planting Tom Riddle's diary, set crucial plotlines in motion. Jason Isaacs brings a compelling smugness to the character, making Lucius's eventual downfall satisfying.

15. Newt Scamander

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Newt Scamander's nerdy charm and dedication to magical creatures distinguish him in the Fantastic Beasts series. While the films could have explored his character more deeply, his role as a different kind of wizard hero is refreshing and endearing.

14. Remus Lupin

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Remus Lupin provides Harry with much-needed support and insight into his parents' lives. His kind demeanor and struggle with lycanthropy add depth to his character. Lupin's dedication to the Order of the Phoenix and his eventual relationship with Tonks enrich the series.

13. Luna Lovegood

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Luna Lovegood's quirky nature and unwavering belief in the extraordinary make her a fan favorite. Her friendship with Harry and role in Dumbledore's Army showcase her bravery and unique perspective, adding a special charm to the series.

12. Rubeus Hagrid

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Hagrid's warmth and loyalty make him an essential figure in Harry's life. As a bridge between the audience and the students, his emotional scenes, like the walk in the woods in Goblet of Fire, resonate deeply. His friendship with Harry, Ron, and Hermione is a heartwarming constant.

11. Fred and George Weasley

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

The Weasley twins bring humor and bravery to the series. Their entrepreneurial spirit and pranks at Hogwarts, coupled with their courage during the Battle of Hogwarts, make them beloved characters. Fred's ultimate sacrifice underscores their heroism.

10. Bellatrix Lestrange

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Bellatrix Lestrange revels in her evil deeds, from torturing Neville's parents to killing Sirius Black and Dobby. Her sadistic joy and unwavering loyalty to Voldemort make her a terrifying antagonist, whose actions leave a lasting impact on the series.

9. Draco Malfoy

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Draco Malfoy serves as Harry's foil, embodying privilege and prejudice. His task to kill Dumbledore reveals a more complex character, torn between his upbringing and his own morality. This internal struggle adds depth to his role in the series.

8. Sirius Black

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Sirius Black's journey from wrongly accused prisoner to Harry's godfather is compelling. His rebellious spirit and the developing father-son bond with Harry make him a cherished character, despite his tragic end.

7. Voldemort

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Lord Voldemort, or Tom Riddle, represents pure evil, devoid of redemption. His fear-inducing presence and the constant threat he poses to Harry drive the series. As a villain, his complexity and power make him a formidable and fascinating character.

6. Neville Longbottom

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Neville's transformation from a timid student to a brave hero is inspiring. His loyalty and courage, especially during the Battle of Hogwarts, highlight his growth and significance in the series. His personal connection to Bellatrix's cruelty adds depth to his character.

5. Albus Dumbledore

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Albus Dumbledore's wisdom and mentorship make him an iconic figure in literature and film. His eccentric yet powerful nature, portrayed brilliantly by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon, solidifies his role as a guiding force. John Lithgow will take on this role in the upcoming HBO series.

4. Severus Snape

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Severus Snape's complex character, masterfully portrayed by Alan Rickman, leaves a lasting impact. His apparent cruelty towards Harry masks a deeper loyalty and love, culminating in one of the series' most emotional revelations. Paapa Essiedu is rumored to take on this iconic role in the HBO series.

3. Ron Weasley

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Ron Weasley's loyalty and humor make him an indispensable friend to Harry. His growth from a comic relief character to a brave hero, alongside his evolving relationship with Hermione, adds richness to the series. His temporary departure and return in Deathly Hallows Part 1 are pivotal moments.

2. Hermione Granger

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Hermione Granger's intelligence and moral compass make her an essential part of the trio. Her development from a rule-abiding student to a fearless ally showcases her depth and strength. Her dynamic with Ron adds a relatable human element to the series.

1. Harry Potter

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Harry Potter, the heart of the series, embodies the ultimate underdog story. His journey from an orphaned boy to the Chosen One, battling Voldemort and overcoming personal challenges, resonates with audiences worldwide. Daniel Radcliffe's portrayal has set a high standard, with a new Harry to be cast for the upcoming HBO series.

And there you have it—our selection of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our choices? 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.

For more Harry Potter fun, explore our guides to LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and other Harry Potter gift ideas. If you're looking to expand your reading list, we've also compiled the best books like Harry Potter.

Upcoming Harry Potter

In addition to the highly anticipated Harry Potter HBO TV series, which promises expansive storytelling and a deeper exploration of the Wizarding World, Warner Bros. has confirmed that Hogwarts Legacy 2 is among their top priorities following the success of the 2023 action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.