John Lithgow is in final talks to play Professor Dumbledore in HBO’s TV adaptation of Harry Potter. The 3rd Rock From the Sun star would play the bearded headmaster of Hogwarts wizarding school whose Order of the Phoenix fights evil Lord Voldemort.

John Lithgow, who is American, is nearing a deal to portray Professor Albus Dumbledore in HBO's upcoming "Harry Potter" series reboot, according to a report in Deadline. When reached, HBO reps declined comment on the report.

And while very little about the TV run has actually been confirmed so far, a Hollywood legend is said to be nearing a deal to be cast as Professor Albus Dumbledore. Following in the footsteps of Richard Harris, Jude Law, and Michael Gambon, it seems John Lithgow will be next to play the Hogwarts head teacher.