In 2025, the magic of Harry Potter continues to enchant fans around the globe, celebrating the enduring legacy of this iconic franchise. In tribute to the beloved Harry Potter film and book series, we've meticulously curated a list of the 25 best characters that have left an indelible mark on the wizarding world. Our selection process was rigorous, considering overall fan reactions, the character's impact on both the novels and films, their significance in pivotal moments, and their role in the broader Harry Potter mythos. If you don't see your favorite character on our list, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
Join us in the Great Hall as we embark on a magical journey through the 25 best Harry Potter characters from both the movies and books.
Note: This list excludes characters from Hogwarts Legacy and will not be influenced by the upcoming Harry Potter TV 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." These poignant words from Dobby, spoken in Deathly Hallows Part 1, still evoke strong emotions. Initially, Dobby might have seemed an annoyance, a quirky house-elf with self-destructive tendencies who inadvertently complicated Harry's life in Chamber of Secrets. Yet, his heart was always in the right place. His loyalty and bravery shone through, particularly in his ultimate sacrifice to save Harry and his friends, making his death one of the most heart-wrenching scenes in the series.
24. Gellert Grindelwald
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Before Voldemort, Gellert Grindelwald was the wizarding world's most feared villain. Though his presence in the main series is brief, his impact is significant, especially in the Fantastic Beasts series. Grindelwald's complex relationship with Dumbledore and his reign of terror in the early 20th century made him a compelling antagonist. Unfortunately, the Fantastic Beasts series concluded prematurely, leaving his full story untold.
23. Ginny Weasley
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Ginny's journey from a shy, love-struck girl to a formidable fighter is inspiring. Her romance with Harry feels both unexpected and inevitable, rooted in the deep bonds of family. While the films may not fully showcase her leadership in Dumbledore's Army, her courage and strength are undeniable, making her the quintessential heroine who captures hearts.
22. Gilderoy Lockhart
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Charming yet deceitful, Gilderoy Lockhart's charisma and memory charms propelled him to fame. His tenure as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts quickly unraveled, revealing his true colors as a fraud. His comedic yet cowardly nature adds a unique flavor to the series, making him a memorable, albeit flawed, character.
21. Albus Severus Potter
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Named after two legendary wizards, Albus Severus struggles with the weight of his heritage and the expectations that come with being Harry's son. His story unfolds more fully in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, highlighting his internal conflicts and adventures at Hogwarts, offering a glimpse into the next generation of wizards.
20. Molly Weasley
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The epitome of a loving, magical mother, Molly Weasley's nurturing nature extends to Harry, treating him like one of her own. Her fierce protectiveness comes to the forefront during the Battle of Hogwarts, where she fearlessly confronts Bellatrix Lestrange, showcasing her strength and maternal ferocity.
19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody
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Grizzled and battle-scarred, Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody is a legendary Auror whose experiences left him paranoid yet fiercely dedicated to the fight against evil. Despite being impersonated by Barty Crouch Jr., the real Moody's dedication to the Order of the Phoenix and his ultimate sacrifice in Deathly Hallows Part 1 cement his legacy.
18. Minerva McGonagall
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As the head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress, Professor McGonagall balances strict discipline with a warm, caring nature. Her role in the Order of the Phoenix and her unwavering support for Harry underscore her importance to the series, making her a beloved figure among fans.
17. Dolores Umbridge
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Dolores Umbridge is a villain who gets under your skin like no other. Her cruel punishments and saccharine demeanor make her a uniquely detestable character. Imelda Staunton's portrayal captures Umbridge's malevolence perfectly, while J.K. Rowling's creation stands out as one of literature's most hated figures.
16. Lucius Malfoy
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Lucius Malfoy's aristocratic arrogance and dark allegiance to Voldemort make him a formidable antagonist. His actions set crucial events in motion, and Jason Isaacs' portrayal adds depth to this complex character, whose fall from grace is both fascinating and satisfying to witness.
15. Newt Scamander
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Newt Scamander brings a unique perspective to the wizarding world, focusing on magical creatures. His awkwardness and passion for his work set him apart from typical heroes, making him a refreshing addition to the franchise. Despite the premature end of the Fantastic Beasts series, Newt's character leaves a lasting impression.
14. Remus Lupin
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Remus Lupin's role as a compassionate mentor and friend to Harry is invaluable. His personal connection to Harry's parents adds depth to his character, and his struggle with being a werewolf adds complexity. Lupin's bravery and loyalty, especially as a member of the Order of the Phoenix, make him a cherished figure in the series.
13. Luna Lovegood
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Luna Lovegood's quirky charm and unwavering belief in the extraordinary make her a standout character. Despite being labeled "Looney," Luna's bravery and unique perspective endear her to fans. Her role in Dumbledore's Army and her friendship with Harry highlight her importance to the series.
12. Rubeus Hagrid
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Hagrid's warm heart and unwavering loyalty to Harry make him an essential part of the series. His role as a surrogate family member and his emotional connection to the trio's journey resonate deeply with fans. Hagrid's adventures and misadventures add a touch of humor and heart to the magical world.
11. Fred and George Weasley
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The Weasley twins bring humor and mischief to Hogwarts, but their bravery and loyalty shine through in crucial moments. Their entrepreneurial spirit and role in Dumbledore's Army showcase their courage, and Fred's ultimate sacrifice underscores their impact on the series.
10. Bellatrix Lestrange
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Bellatrix Lestrange's sadistic pleasure in causing harm makes her one of the series' most chilling villains. Her brutal actions, from torturing Neville's parents to murdering Sirius Black and Dobby, cement her as a formidable and terrifying adversary.
9. Draco Malfoy
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Draco Malfoy's journey from schoolyard bully to conflicted young man adds depth to the series. His struggle with the dark path set before him by Voldemort and his ultimate inability to kill Dumbledore showcase his complexity, making him a character fans love to hate and ultimately empathize with.
8. Sirius Black
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Sirius Black's escape from Azkaban and his role as Harry's godfather bring a sense of family and rebellion to the series. His tragic fate and the bond he shares with Harry make him a beloved character, despite his brief time in the spotlight.
7. Voldemort
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Lord Voldemort, or Tom Marvolo Riddle, is the epitome of evil in the wizarding world. His relentless pursuit of power and immortality, coupled with his lack of empathy, make him a terrifying and unforgettable villain. His confrontations with Harry drive the series' tension and drama.
6. Neville Longbottom
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Neville's transformation from a timid boy to a courageous hero is one of the series' most inspiring arcs. His bravery in the face of personal tragedy, especially during the Battle of Hogwarts, solidifies his place as a key figure in the fight against evil.
5. Albus Dumbledore
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Albus Dumbledore's wisdom, power, and mentorship make him a legendary figure in the wizarding world. His complex character, portrayed memorably by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon, adds depth to the series. John Lithgow's upcoming portrayal in the HBO series promises to bring new life to this iconic character.
4. Severus Snape
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Severus Snape's enigmatic nature and complex motivations make him one of the series' most debated characters. His ultimate sacrifice and the revelation of his true allegiance to Dumbledore and Harry's mother showcase his depth. Alan Rickman's portrayal adds layers to this multifaceted character, and Paapa Essiedu's potential casting in the HBO series is eagerly anticipated.
3. Ron Weasley
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Ron Weasley's loyalty and humor make him an indispensable part of Harry's journey. His growth from a sidekick to a hero in his own right, especially during the Battle of Hogwarts, showcases his bravery. His relationship with Hermione adds a touch of romance and realism to the series.
2. Hermione Granger
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Hermione Granger's intelligence, courage, and moral compass make her a standout character. Her development from a rule-abiding student to a fearless fighter for justice is inspiring. Her friendship with Harry and Ron forms the heart of the series, and her role as "the brightest witch of her age" is undeniable.
1. Harry Potter
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Harry Potter's journey from an orphaned boy to a hero who defeats the Dark Lord is the heart of the series. His struggles, friendships, and ultimate sacrifices resonate deeply with fans. Daniel Radcliffe's iconic portrayal leaves big shoes to fill, with the upcoming HBO series set to introduce a new generation to the Boy Who Lived.
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 Hogwarts Legacy 2 is one of its "biggest priorities" following the success of 2023's action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.
