In the magical world of Harry Potter, which continues to captivate audiences in 2025, we've taken a deep dive into both the beloved books and films to curate a list of the 25 best characters. Our selection process considered overall fan reactions, the impact on both the novels and films, the characters' contributions to the series' most memorable moments, and their significance within the Potter universe. If your favorite didn't make the cut, don't hesitate to share your thoughts in the comments below!
Now, let's gather in the Great Hall for this special assembly as we explore the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books.
Note: This list excludes 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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Dobby, the endearing house-elf, left a lasting impression with his final words, "Such a beautiful place... to be with friends," in Deathly Hallows Part 1. Initially a frustrating figure, Dobby's noble intentions and loyalty to Harry Potter, especially after gaining his freedom, shone brightly. His ultimate sacrifice to save Harry and his friends from a dire situation, despite his smaller role in the films compared to the books, cemented his place as one of the series' most touching characters.
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 is overshadowed by his role in the Fantastic Beasts films. Here, his reign of terror and complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore are explored in depth. Despite the series being cut short, Grindelwald's chilling presence remains unforgettable.
23. Ginny Weasley
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Ginny Weasley's journey from a lovesick girl to a fierce member of Dumbledore's Army captures the heart. Her romance with Harry, which felt both unexpected and inevitable, added depth to the narrative. In the books, Ginny's leadership and strength are more pronounced, making her an inspiring figure in the fight against evil.
22. Gilderoy Lockhart
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Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and self-promotion hide his true nature as a fraud. As the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts, his incompetence and cowardice are exposed by Harry and his friends, revealing the hollowness behind his heroic facade.
21. Albus Severus Potter
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Named after two iconic wizards, Albus Severus Potter navigates the pressures of his famous lineage. While the films offer only glimpses of his story, "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" on stage delves deeper into his adventures at Hogwarts, hinting at future cinematic potential.
20. Molly Weasley
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Molly Weasley embodies the perfect mother figure, extending her warmth and care to Harry as if he were her own. Her nurturing nature is complemented by her courage, notably showcased during her confrontation with Bellatrix Lestrange, proving her strength and love for her family.
19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody
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Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, the grizzled Auror, brings a wealth of experience and paranoia 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 mentorship of Harry highlight his importance in the series.
18. Minerva McGonagall
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Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet caring head of Gryffindor, balances discipline with kindness. Her role in the Order of the Phoenix and her nurturing of Harry throughout his years at Hogwarts showcase her as a pivotal figure in the wizarding community.
17. Dolores Umbridge
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Dolores Umbridge's cruelty and manipulative nature make her one of the most hated characters in the series. Her presence at Hogwarts and her oppressive methods, more pronounced in the books, highlight her as a villain who gets under the skin of both characters and readers alike.
16. Lucius Malfoy
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Lucius Malfoy's arrogance and support for Voldemort make him a formidable antagonist. His actions, including planting Tom Riddle's diary, drive key plotlines. His fall from grace and the portrayal by Jason Isaacs add depth to his character's journey.
15. Newt Scamander
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Newt Scamander, the quirky hero of the Fantastic Beasts series, offers a fresh perspective on the wizarding world. His passion for magical creatures and his unique personality distinguish him from other characters, though the premature end of the series leaves his story untold.
14. Remus Lupin
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Remus Lupin's kindness and support for Harry during his time as a Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher are invaluable. As a werewolf, his struggle with his condition adds complexity to his character, and his role in the Order of the Phoenix solidifies his heroism.
13. Luna Lovegood
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Luna Lovegood's eccentricity and unwavering belief in the extraordinary make her a beloved character. Her role in Dumbledore's Army and her friendship with Harry and his friends showcase her bravery and unique perspective on the world.
12. Rubeus Hagrid
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Rubeus Hagrid's warmth and loyalty to Harry provide comfort and guidance throughout the series. His emotional connection to the trio and his role in their journey from students to warriors underscore his importance in the narrative.
11. Fred and George Weasley
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Fred and George Weasley's humor and entrepreneurial spirit bring joy to the series. Their bravery and ultimate sacrifice in the fight against evil reveal their depth and commitment to the cause, making them unforgettable characters.
10. Bellatrix Lestrange
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Bellatrix Lestrange's sadistic joy in evil deeds makes her a terrifying antagonist. Her actions, including the torture of Neville's parents and the murder of Sirius Black, drive the narrative and highlight the depths of darkness in the wizarding world.
9. Draco Malfoy
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Draco Malfoy's journey from a school bully to a conflicted young man adds complexity to the series. His struggle with the dark path chosen for him by his family and his ultimate inability to kill Dumbledore showcase his internal conflict and growth.
8. Sirius Black
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Sirius Black's transformation from a feared fugitive to a beloved godfather to Harry is one of the series' most poignant arcs. 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, the embodiment of evil, is a chilling antagonist whose presence drives the entire series. His lack of redemption and relentless pursuit of power make him a formidable foe, whose defeat by Harry is a testament to the power of love and friendship.
6. Neville Longbottom
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Neville Longbottom's transformation from an awkward student to a brave hero is inspiring. His loyalty and courage, especially during the Battle of Hogwarts, showcase his growth and the strength he finds within himself.
5. Albus Dumbledore
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Albus Dumbledore's wisdom and mentorship guide Harry throughout the series. His complex character, portrayed by both Richard Harris and Michael Gambon, adds depth to the narrative. John Lithgow's upcoming portrayal in the HBO series promises to continue this legacy.
4. Severus Snape
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Severus Snape's enigmatic nature and ultimate sacrifice for Harry's cause make him a compelling character. Alan Rickman's portrayal, and the potential of Paapa Essiedu in the HBO series, highlight the complexity of Snape's loyalty and love.
3. Ron Weasley
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Ron Weasley's loyalty and humor make him an essential part of the trio. His bravery and growth throughout the series, despite personal fears and insecurities, showcase his strength and the depth of his friendship with Harry and Hermione.
2. Hermione Granger
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Hermione Granger's intelligence and moral compass make her a vital part of the trio. Her development from a rule-abiding student to a fearless ally willing to break the law for the greater good highlights her strength and dedication to her friends and their cause.
1. Harry Potter
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Harry Potter, the series' protagonist, embodies the journey of an underdog facing overwhelming odds. His growth from a boy living under the stairs to a hero who confronts Voldemort is inspiring. His imperfections and the support of his friends and surrogate family make him relatable and beloved.
The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters
And that's our pick of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our selections? Is there a favorite missing from the list? Share your thoughts in the comments or use our interactive tool to create your own Harry Potter character tier list.
Looking for more Harry Potter content? Explore our guides on LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and other Harry Potter gift ideas. For those eager to delve deeper into similar genres, check out our list of the best books like Harry Potter.
Upcoming Harry Potter Projects
In addition to the much-anticipated Harry Potter HBO TV series, which promises expansive storytelling and a deeper exploration of the Wizarding World, Warner Bros. has announced that Hogwarts Legacy 2 is a top priority following the success of the 2023 action RPG.
