The movies of Harry Potter still enchant children and fans who saw the series as kids. This is also due to the actors who embodied many of the beloved characters. Robin Williams also wanted to be part of it, but a rule prevented him from participating.
Which roles did Robin Williams want to play? Currently, a series adaptation of Harry Potter is planned at HBO. In this context, there are many speculations, as well as wishes for who should take on the various iconic roles.
Even before the production of the first films, there were actors who wanted to take on a role in the series. One of them was Robin Williams. The legendary actor is known for his roles in Jumanji and Good Will Hunting.
Despite his desire to take on a role in the Harry Potter franchise, he was denied that opportunity. The problem lay with a rule from J.K. Rowling.
Only Brits were allowed to play in Harry Potter
What was that rule? During the production of the films, J.K. Rowling was closely involved to ensure her work was adapted as she wished. There was a rule regarding the selection of actors: only Brits were allowed to play. That was also the reason why Robin Williams was not allowed to participate.
In 2021, Chris Columbus, the director of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, spoke with Total Film (via gamesradar.com) about Robin Williams and that he really wanted to play Remus Lupin. In the 3rd part, he is played by David Thewlis.
For Columbus, it was hard to turn down Williams: I had a conversation with Robin Williams, who wanted to play Lupin. […] It was very hard for me to say: These are all Brits. There is nothing I can do.
Are there exceptions to the rule? On the one hand, Eleanor Columbus, the director’s daughter, was allowed to participate in the first film. There, you can see her being sorted into Hufflepuff by the talking hat. However, she does not speak in the short scene.
In the first part, the American Verne Troyer also appears. He plays Griphook in Gringotts Bank. However, the role was played by the British actor Warwick Davis in later films. He is known from Willow.
For the role of the affable teacher Remus Lupin, Robin Williams’ style would have definitely matched. Robin Williams was not only a gifted and beloved actor, he was also a passionate gamer: Global star Robin Williams was such a big fan of the game Zelda that he named his daughter after the princess: “You’re lucky you’re not named Mario”
