Top 25 Harry Potter Characters: Movies and Books

In 2025, the Harry Potter franchise continues to captivate audiences worldwide, celebrating its enduring legacy. To honor this iconic series, we've meticulously curated a list of the 25 best characters from both the Harry Potter films and books. Our selection process considered overall fan reactions, the impact on the franchise, memorable moments, and significance within the Potter universe. If your favorite characters didn't make the cut, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section!

Now, let's gather in the Great Hall for a special assembly as we explore the top 25 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 series.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

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25. Dobby

Dobby's poignant words in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1," "Such a beautiful place... to be with friends," evoke strong emotions, especially considering they were among his last. Initially introduced as a quirky and self-harming house-elf in "Chamber of Secrets," Dobby's intentions were always noble. His loyalty and kindness towards Harry, culminating in his ultimate sacrifice to save Harry and his friends, make him one of the most touching figures in the series.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

Once the most feared villain in the wizarding world, Gellert Grindelwald's presence looms large despite his brief appearance in the main series. His true villainy is showcased in the "Fantastic Beasts" films, where his reign of terror and complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore are explored. Though the series was cut short, Grindelwald's impact remains unforgettable.

23. Ginny Weasley

From her early role in "Chamber of Secrets" as a vessel for Tom Riddle's madness to her blossoming romance with Harry, Ginny Weasley's journey is captivating. She evolves into a fierce leader within Dumbledore's Army, showcasing strength and determination. Her romance with Harry feels both surprising and inevitable, adding depth to their characters.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

Gilderoy Lockhart charms his way through life with charisma and memory charms, claiming heroic deeds he never performed. As the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts, his vanity and incompetence are quickly exposed by Harry and his friends, revealing the true nature of this self-aggrandizing wizard.

21. Albus Severus Potter

Albus Severus Potter, named after two iconic wizards, navigates the pressures of being Harry's son and the expectations tied to his name. While only briefly seen in the films, his full story unfolds in "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," where his struggles and adventures at Hogwarts are detailed.

20. Molly Weasley

Molly Weasley embodies the perfect, loving mother, enhanced by magic. Her nurturing of Harry, treating him like another son, provides him with the family warmth he lacks. Beyond her caring nature, Molly shows courage as a member of the Order of the Phoenix, fiercely protecting her family.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, a grizzled veteran Auror, brings a fierce intensity to the series. His eccentricities and battle scars reflect his dedication to the fight against evil. Despite being impersonated by Barty Crouch Jr., the real Moody's commitment to protecting Harry until his death in "The Deathly Hallows Part 1" is unwavering.

18. Minerva McGonagall

As head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress, Minerva McGonagall is both a strict disciplinarian and a caring figure at Hogwarts. Her journey from student to teacher and her role in the Order of the Phoenix highlight her dedication to the school and its students, especially Harry.

17. Delores Umbridge

Dolores Umbridge is a character who elicits strong emotions, often more so than Voldemort himself. Her constant presence at Hogwarts and her cruel punishments, like forcing students to write with a blood-quill, make her a uniquely detestable villain. Imelda Staunton's portrayal adds to her chilling impact.

16. Lucius Malfoy

Lucius Malfoy, the epitome of wealth and power, hides his sinister intentions behind a facade of arrogance. His actions, like planting Tom Riddle's diary in Ginny's cauldron, set major plotlines in motion. Jason Isaacs' portrayal captures Lucius' smugness and eventual fall from grace, adding depth to his character.

15. Newt Scamander

Newt Scamander offers a fresh perspective in the "Fantastic Beasts" series, bringing his passion for magical creatures to the forefront. While his character could have been further developed, Newt's unique charm and dedication to his work make him a beloved figure in the Potter universe.

14. Remus Lupin

Remus Lupin provides Harry with comfort and insight into his parents, serving as a caring presence during his time as Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. As a werewolf, Lupin's struggle to control his darker side adds complexity to his character, making him a pivotal member of the Order of the Phoenix.

13. Luna Lovegood

Luna Lovegood, often seen as "looney," brings a unique perspective to the series. Her quirky nature and unwavering support for Harry and his friends, especially in Dumbledore's Army, make her an endearing and vital part of the story. Her resilience and kindness shine through her eccentricities.

12. Rubeus Hagrid

Hagrid's warm and fuzzy presence is a comfort to Harry, who lacked friends and family. As a loyal confidant and protector, Hagrid's emotional moments with Harry, Hermione, and Ron resonate deeply, showcasing his role as a surrogate for the audience watching the trio grow.

11. Fred and George Weasley

Fred and George Weasley, with their love for pranks and entrepreneurial spirit, bring joy and bravery to the series. Their departure from Hogwarts and involvement in the fight against Umbridge highlight their courage. Fred's ultimate sacrifice underscores their impact on the narrative.

10. Bellatrix Lestrange

Bellatrix Lestrange revels in her wickedness, making her one of the most terrifying villains. Her sadistic acts, including torturing Neville's parents and murdering Sirius Black, cement her place as a formidable antagonist. Her chilling laughter and cruel actions leave a lasting impression.

9. Draco Malfoy

Draco Malfoy, Harry's foil at Hogwarts, embodies privilege and prejudice. His transformation from a school bully to a reluctant Death Eater adds layers to his character. His struggle with the task of killing Dumbledore shows a glimpse of his inner conflict and humanity.

8. Sirius Black

Sirius Black, wrongly imprisoned for years, becomes a crucial figure in Harry's life as his godfather. Their budding father-son relationship adds depth to Sirius's character, making his untimely death all the more tragic. His rebellious spirit and dedication to Harry's safety are unforgettable.

7. Voldemort

Lord Voldemort, or Tom Marvolo Riddle, is the epitome of evil, with no redemption in sight. His fear-inducing presence and relentless pursuit of power make him a formidable adversary. The tension between him and Harry, with Harry narrowly escaping death, keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

6. Neville Longbottom

Neville Longbottom's transformation from a timid boy to a brave hero is inspiring. His involvement in Dumbledore's Army and his confrontation with Bellatrix Lestrange highlight his growth and courage. Neville's journey from underdog to a key player in the Battle of Hogwarts is a testament to his resilience.

5. Albus Dumbledore

Albus Dumbledore, a wise mentor and guide, holds a special place in the series. His whimsical yet powerful nature, showcased in battles against Voldemort and the Inferi, is legendary. His death and the revelations about his past add complexity to his character, making him a beloved figure.

4. Severus Snape

Severus Snape, a complex and controversial figure, leaves a lasting impact on the series. His harsh treatment of Harry and apparent allegiance to Voldemort mask a deeper loyalty to Dumbledore and love for Lily Potter. Alan Rickman's portrayal captures the nuances of Snape's character, making him unforgettable.

3. Ron Weasley

Ron Weasley, Harry's loyal friend and sidekick, brings humor and heart to the series. His bravery, despite fears like spiders, and his complex relationship with Hermione add depth to his character. Ron's journey from a bumbling sidekick to a hero in his own right is a highlight of the narrative.

2. Hermione Granger

Hermione Granger, the brightest witch of her age, is more than just a sidekick. Her intelligence, bravery, and willingness to break rules for the greater good make her an essential part of the trio. Her evolving relationship with Ron adds a romantic dimension to her character, enhancing her role in the series.

1. Harry Potter

Harry Potter, the series' protagonist, embodies the underdog's journey from obscurity to heroism. His battle against Voldemort, fueled by love and a sense of justice, resonates with audiences. Despite his flaws, Harry's growth and sacrifices make him a universally beloved character.

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 favorite character missing? Share your thoughts in the comments or create your own Harry Potter character tier list using our tool.

For more Harry Potter content, explore our guides on LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and other gift ideas. If you're interested in similar magical worlds, check out our list of the best books like Harry Potter.

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 that "Hogwarts Legacy 2" is a major priority following the success of the 2023 action RPG "Hogwarts Legacy."