The Irish Harry Potter stars as former Late Late Toy Show kid lands role in new series

As Leitrim boy Leo Earley prepares to take on the role of Seamus Finnigan in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter reboot, he’s not just stepping into a Gryffindor uniform—he’s stepping into a rich tradition of Irish talent that has long cast its spell over the Wizarding World.

Leo, who first captured attention with his performance on the Late Late Toy Show and at the 2024 Fleadh Cheoil, now joins a legacy that includes some of Ireland’s most celebrated actors.

Richard Harris, the late Limerick legend, was the original Dumbledore—bringing warmth and quiet authority to the headmaster role in the first two films. After his death in 2002, the role passed to Michael Gambon, born in Dublin, who portrayed a sterner but equally powerful version of the character until the series concluded.

Brendan Gleeson gave a memorable performance as Mad-Eye Moody in The Goblet of Fire, bringing grit, humour, and unpredictability to the role. His son, Domhnall Gleeson, also joined the franchise as Bill Weasley in the final instalments.

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Fiona Shaw, from County Cork, portrayed the sharp-tongued Aunt Petunia Dursley—Harry’s cold and controlling Muggle aunt. And Evanna Lynch, from Louth, became an international icon as Luna Lovegood. Cast through an open audition, Lynch's portrayal of the dreamy Ravenclaw student won over fans and critics alike.

Then there’s Devon Murray, the original Seamus Finnigan, who brought the fiery Irish character to life in all eight films. Now, nearly two decades later, Leo Earley picks up the torch for a new generation—portraying the same role in what HBO promises will be a deeper, more faithful adaptation of the books.

As filming begins this summer, Leo becomes the youngest Irish actor to take on a recurring role in a major U.S. television series. From rural Leitrim to the global stage, he’s continuing a proud tradition of Irish magic woven through the halls of Hogwarts.