In 2025, the Harry Potter franchise continues to captivate audiences as it did at its inception. To honor this enduring legacy, we've meticulously curated a list of the 25 best characters from the Harry Potter films and books. Our selection criteria encompass fan reactions, the impact on both novels and films, significance in pivotal moments, and their role in the broader Harry Potter mythos. If your favorite character didn't make the cut, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below!
Join us in the Great Hall for a magical assembly as we unveil the top 25 characters from the beloved Harry Potter universe.
Note: This list does not include characters from Hogwarts Legacy and remains unaffected by the upcoming Harry Potter series.
The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters
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25. Dobby
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"Such a beautiful place... to be with friends." Dobby's poignant words in Deathly Hallows Part 1 still resonate deeply. Initially, Dobby's antics might have seemed irritating, especially during Harry's second year at Hogwarts, but his noble intentions and unwavering loyalty, particularly towards Harry, shone through. His sacrifice in freeing Harry and his friends, only to be fatally wounded by Bellatrix Lestrange, remains one of the most heart-wrenching scenes in the series.
24. Gellert Grindelwald
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Once the most feared villain in the wizarding world, Gellert Grindelwald's brief yet impactful appearance in the main series left a lasting impression. His true menace unfolds in the Fantastic Beasts films, showcasing his reign of terror and complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore. Despite the series being cut short, Grindelwald's legacy as a formidable antagonist endures.
23. Ginny Weasley
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Ginny's journey from a lovesick girl in Chamber of Secrets to a formidable member of Dumbledore's Army is inspiring. Her romance with Harry feels both unexpected and inevitable, rooted deeply in the family that embraced him as one of their own. Ginny's leadership and strength make her an essential character in the fight against evil.
22. Gilderoy Lockhart
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Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and charisma mask his true nature as a fraud. His tenure as Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts reveals his incompetence and vanity, culminating in his exposure by Harry and friends. Lockhart's character adds a humorous yet cautionary tale to the series.
21. Albus Severus Potter
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Named after two of the most significant wizards in history, Albus Severus Potter struggles with the legacy of his father, Harry. His story, explored in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, delves into his internal conflicts and adventures at Hogwarts, offering a glimpse into the next generation of the Potter family.
20. Molly Weasley
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Molly Weasley embodies the perfect, nurturing mother, enhanced by her magical abilities. Her warmth and support for Harry, treating him like another son, fill the void left by his tragic past. Molly's courage, especially during the Battle of Hogwarts, solidifies her as a fierce protector of her family.
19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody
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"Grizzled" aptly describes Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, a renowned Auror known for his fierce dedication to fighting evil. Despite his paranoia and eccentricities, Moody's return to Hogwarts as a teacher and his role in the Order of the Phoenix showcase his unwavering commitment to protecting Harry and the wizarding world.
18. Minerva McGonagall
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As head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress, Professor McGonagall's strict yet caring nature makes her a beloved figure. Her dedication to Hogwarts and the Order of the Phoenix, along with her pivotal role in Harry's life, cement her as a crucial character in the series.
17. Dolores Umbridge
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Dolores Umbridge's presence at Hogwarts is nothing short of torturous. Her sadistic methods and insufferable demeanor make her one of the most hated characters, surpassing even Voldemort in the way she gets under our skin. Her portrayal in the books and films exemplifies the depth of her villainy.
16. Lucius Malfoy
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Lucius Malfoy's influence and dark actions, such as planting Tom Riddle's diary in Ginny's cauldron, drive pivotal plotlines. His arrogance and unwavering loyalty to Voldemort make him a compelling antagonist, whose fall from grace adds layers to his character.
15. Newt Scamander
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Newt Scamander's unique charm and dedication to magical creatures set him apart in the Fantastic Beasts series. While his character development was cut short, his role in exploring the broader wizarding world remains significant.
14. Remus Lupin
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Remus Lupin's compassionate teaching and personal connection to Harry's parents offer comfort and guidance during a tumultuous time. His struggle with his werewolf identity adds depth, making him a beloved and complex character.
13. Luna Lovegood
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Luna Lovegood's quirky personality and unwavering belief in the extraordinary make her a cherished friend to Harry and his allies. Her role in Dumbledore's Army and her resilience in the face of adversity highlight her importance in the series.
12. Rubeus Hagrid
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Hagrid's warm-hearted nature and unwavering loyalty to Harry make him an indispensable friend and mentor. His emotional connection to the trio and his role in their journey add a layer of warmth and humanity to the series.
11. Fred and George Weasley
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Fred and George Weasley's humor and bravery bring light to the darkest moments. Their entrepreneurial spirit and valiant fight against tyranny, culminating in Fred's tragic sacrifice, showcase their significant impact on the series.
10. Bellatrix Lestrange
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Bellatrix Lestrange's sadistic joy in causing pain and chaos makes her one of the most terrifying villains. Her actions, from torturing Neville's parents to murdering Sirius and Dobby, solidify her as a formidable force of evil.
9. Draco Malfoy
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Draco Malfoy's journey from school bully to reluctant Death Eater adds complexity to his character. His internal struggle and eventual refusal to kill Dumbledore reveal a nuanced side to his villainy.
8. Sirius Black
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Sirius Black's transformation from a feared escapee to Harry's godfather and protector is deeply moving. His rebellious spirit and the fatherly bond he forms with Harry make his untimely death all the more tragic.
7. Voldemort
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Lord Voldemort's pure evil and relentless pursuit of power make him the ultimate antagonist. His backstory and the fear he inspires throughout the wizarding world underscore his significance in the series.
6. Neville Longbottom
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Neville Longbottom's transformation from a timid student to a courageous hero is one of the series' most inspiring arcs. His bravery in the face of personal tragedy and his role in the Battle of Hogwarts cement his place among the best characters.
5. Albus Dumbledore
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Albus Dumbledore's wisdom and mentorship guide Harry through his journey. His complex character, from his powerful wizardry to his personal flaws, adds depth to the series. John Lithgow's upcoming portrayal in the HBO series will bring new life to this iconic figure.
4. Severus Snape
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Severus Snape's enigmatic nature and ultimate sacrifice for love make him one of the most debated characters. His portrayal by Alan Rickman and the potential casting of Paapa Essiedu in the HBO series keep his legacy alive.
3. Ron Weasley
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Ron Weasley's loyalty and comic relief make him an essential part of the trio. His growth from a fearful friend to a brave ally, coupled with his complex relationship with Hermione, adds depth to his character.
2. Hermione Granger
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Hermione Granger's intelligence and moral compass make her a standout character. Her evolution from a rule-abiding student to a fearless fighter for justice, alongside her dynamic with Ron, highlights her significance in the series.
1. Harry Potter
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Harry Potter's journey from an orphaned boy to the chosen one encapsulates the heart of the series. His relatable struggles, bravery, and growth into a hero beloved by fans worldwide secure his place at the top of our list. As we await the new HBO series, the casting of over 32,000 children for the lead roles promises exciting new interpretations of these iconic characters.
The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters
And that's our selection of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our choices? Or is there a character you feel should have been included? 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? Explore our guides to LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and more Harry Potter gift ideas. We've also compiled a list of the best books like Harry Potter for those eager to delve deeper into the genre.
Upcoming Harry Potter
In addition to the highly anticipated Harry Potter HBO TV show, which promises "big-picture storytelling" and a deeper exploration of the Wizarding World, Warner Bros. has confirmed that Hogwarts Legacy 2 is a top priority following the success of the 2023 action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.
