In 2025, the Harry Potter saga continues to captivate audiences worldwide, a testament to its timeless appeal. To celebrate this enduring franchise, we've compiled a list of the 25 best characters from the Harry Potter books and films, selected based on fan reaction, their impact on the series, and their significance within the Potter mythos. This list excludes characters from Hogwarts Legacy and remains unaffected by the upcoming Harry Potter series.
Before diving into our selections, let's note that these choices reflect a balance between the novels and films, considering both equally. If your favorite character didn't make the cut, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
Join us in the Great Hall for a special assembly as we explore the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books.
The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters
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25. Dobby
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Dobby the house-elf, introduced in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, might have started off as a bit of a nuisance to Harry. However, his noble intentions and unwavering loyalty to Harry, culminating in his ultimate sacrifice in The Deathly Hallows Part 1, cemented his place as one of the series' most beloved characters. Dobby's touching last words, "Such a beautiful place... to be with friends," resonate deeply with fans, showcasing his profound impact despite his limited screen time compared to the books.
24. Gellert Grindelwald
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Before Voldemort, there was Gellert Grindelwald, a dark wizard whose terror gripped the wizarding world in the early 20th century. Though his presence in the main Harry Potter series is brief, Grindelwald's full story unfolds in the Fantastic Beasts series. His complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore adds depth to his character, making him a formidable and intriguing villain despite the premature end of the Fantastic Beasts saga.
23. Ginny Weasley
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Ginny Weasley's journey from a shy, lovesick girl to a fierce member of Dumbledore's Army is a testament to her growth and strength. Her romance with Harry feels both unexpected and inevitable, adding a heartwarming layer to the series. Though her leadership qualities and bravery are more pronounced in the books, Ginny remains a cherished character for her resilience and spirit.
22. Gilderoy Lockhart
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Gilderoy Lockhart, the charming yet utterly fraudulent Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, brings humor and a touch of vanity to the series. His exaggerated tales of heroism and eventual exposure by Harry and friends in Chamber of Secrets make for a memorable subplot, showcasing the folly of false bravado.
21. Albus Severus Potter
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Albus Severus Potter, the son of Harry and Ginny, embodies the struggle between fame and anonymity. Named after two legendary wizards, he grapples with the weight of his legacy in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. His cinematic future remains uncertain, but his story adds a poignant continuation to the Potter family saga.
20. Molly Weasley
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Molly Weasley, the epitome of maternal love and magic, offers Harry the warmth and care he desperately needs. Her fierce protection of her family, culminating in her iconic showdown with Bellatrix Lestrange, showcases her strength and courage. Molly's nurturing presence is a cornerstone of the series, resonating deeply with fans.
19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody
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Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, the grizzled Auror and Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, embodies the battle-hardened veteran. His tragic impersonation by Barty Crouch Jr. in Goblet of Fire adds a layer of intrigue to his character. Moody's dedication to the Order of the Phoenix and his ultimate sacrifice in The Deathly Hallows Part 1 solidify his place as a revered hero.
18. Minerva McGonagall
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Professor Minerva McGonagall, the strict yet fair head of Gryffindor, is a pillar of Hogwarts. Her transformation from a stern disciplinarian to a nurturing figure for Harry and his friends highlights her depth and warmth. Her bravery and leadership during the Battle of Hogwarts further cement her legacy as an iconic character.
17. Dolores Umbridge
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Dolores Umbridge, the epitome of bureaucratic evil, elicits a visceral reaction from fans. Her sadistic methods and false sweetness make her a more immediate threat to Harry than even Voldemort at times. Her role in Order of the Phoenix is unforgettable, and her character's impact on the series is profound.
16. Lucius Malfoy
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Lucius Malfoy, the wealthy and influential Death Eater, embodies the sinister side of the wizarding world. His actions in Chamber of Secrets set off a chain of events that challenge Harry, and his smug demeanor, brilliantly portrayed by Jason Isaacs, makes him a compelling antagonist. His fall from grace adds a satisfying arc to his character.
15. Newt Scamander
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Newt Scamander, the protagonist of the Fantastic Beasts series, offers a fresh perspective on the wizarding world. His dedication to magical creatures and his unique heroism distinguish him from Harry. Though the Fantastic Beasts series was cut short, Newt's character remains a fascinating addition to the Potter universe.
14. Remus Lupin
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Remus Lupin, the kind-hearted werewolf and Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, provides Harry with much-needed guidance and comfort. His personal connection to Harry's parents and his struggle with his lycanthropy add layers to his character. Lupin's bravery and dedication to the Order of the Phoenix make him a beloved figure.
13. Luna Lovegood
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Luna Lovegood, the quirky and insightful Ravenclaw, brings a unique charm to the series. Her unwavering support for Harry and her role in Dumbledore's Army showcase her bravery and loyalty. Luna's eccentricities and deep wisdom make her a fan favorite.
12. Rubeus Hagrid
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Rubeus Hagrid, the lovable half-giant, serves as a constant source of comfort and friendship for Harry. His warm presence and dedication to Hogwarts and its students make him an integral part of the series. Hagrid's emotional moments with Harry, Hermione, and Ron resonate deeply with fans.
11. Fred and George Weasley
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Fred and George Weasley, the mischievous twins, bring humor and light-heartedness to the series. Their entrepreneurial spirit and bravery in founding Weasley's Wizard Wheezes and joining the Order of the Phoenix highlight their courage and ingenuity. Fred's sacrifice in The Deathly Hallows adds a poignant note to their legacy.
10. Bellatrix Lestrange
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Bellatrix Lestrange, the sadistic Death Eater, embodies pure evil. Her cruelty, from torturing Neville's parents to murdering Sirius Black and Dobby, makes her a formidable and terrifying antagonist. Her ultimate fate in The Deathly Hallows Part 2 feels well-earned, given her heinous actions.
9. Draco Malfoy
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Draco Malfoy, Harry's school rival, evolves from a simple antagonist to a complex character. His struggle with the Dark Lord's orders to kill Dumbledore reveals his internal conflict and adds depth to his role. Draco's journey from arrogance to vulnerability makes him a compelling figure in the series.
8. Sirius Black
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Sirius Black, Harry's godfather, represents the family Harry never had. His transformation from a feared fugitive to a protective father figure adds emotional depth to the series. Sirius's tragic end in Order of the Phoenix leaves a lasting impact on Harry and fans alike.
7. Voldemort
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Lord Voldemort, the ultimate villain, embodies pure evil and terror. His backstory as Tom Riddle and his relentless pursuit of power make him a chilling adversary. Voldemort's inability to understand love and friendship adds a tragic dimension to his character, making his defeat by Harry all the more satisfying.
6. Neville Longbottom
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Neville Longbottom's transformation from a clumsy, unsure boy to a courageous hero is one of the series' most inspiring arcs. His bravery during the Battle of Hogwarts and his role in Dumbledore's Army highlight his growth and resilience. Neville's journey resonates deeply with fans.
5. Albus Dumbledore
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Albus Dumbledore, the wise and enigmatic headmaster of Hogwarts, serves as a mentor and guide to Harry. His complex character, from his battles with Voldemort to his troubled past with Grindelwald, adds depth to the series. Dumbledore's legacy, despite his flaws, remains a cornerstone of the Harry Potter saga.
4. Severus Snape
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Severus Snape, the enigmatic potions master, is one of the series' most debated characters. His complex relationship with Harry and his ultimate sacrifice for love make him a deeply moving figure. Snape's journey from perceived villain to tragic hero is one of the series' most compelling narratives.
3. Ron Weasley
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Ron Weasley, Harry's loyal best friend, brings humor and heart to the series. His bravery, despite his fears, and his growth from a sidekick to a hero in his own right, make him an essential part of the trio. Ron's journey, including his relationship with Hermione, adds depth and warmth to the narrative.
2. Hermione Granger
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Hermione Granger, the brilliant and compassionate witch, is the heart of the trio. Her intelligence, courage, and moral compass guide Harry and Ron through countless challenges. Hermione's growth from a rule-abiding student to a fearless advocate for justice makes her an inspiring and beloved character.
1. Harry Potter
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Harry Potter, the boy who lived, is the heart and soul of the series. His journey from an orphaned boy to a courageous hero resonates with fans worldwide. Harry's struggles, friendships, and ultimate triumph over Voldemort embody the themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience that define the Harry Potter saga.
And that's our selection 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.
For more Harry Potter content, explore 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 promises "big-picture storytelling" and a deeper exploration of the Wizarding World, Warner Bros. has confirmed Hogwarts Legacy 2 as one of its "biggest priorities" following the success of 2023's action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.
