In 2025, the Harry Potter franchise remains as captivating as ever, prompting us to celebrate its enduring legacy by ranking the 25 best characters from the beloved Harry Potter film and book series. Before diving into our selections, let's clarify our criteria: these rankings are influenced by fan reactions, the characters' impact on both the novels and films, their significance in pivotal moments, and their importance to the broader Harry Potter universe. If your favorite character doesn't appear on our list, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
Now, let's gather in the Great Hall for this special assembly as we explore 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
"Such a beautiful place... to be with friends." These poignant words from Dobby in Deathly Hallows Part 1 still tug at our heartstrings. Initially, Dobby might have seemed more of a nuisance than a hero, with his self-harming habits and interference in Harry's life. However, his noble intentions and unwavering loyalty to Harry, especially after being freed from servitude, shone brightly. Though his screen time is limited compared to the books, Dobby's sacrifice to save Harry and his friends from a dire situation remains one of the series' most touching moments.
24. Gellert Grindelwald
Once the most feared villain in the wizarding world, Gellert Grindelwald's notoriety was eventually overshadowed by Voldemort. Yet, his brief but impactful appearance in the main series and his central role in the Fantastic Beasts films showcase his reign of terror and complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore. The premature end of the Fantastic Beasts series left Grindelwald's full story untold, but his cunning and menace remain unforgettable.
23. Ginny Weasley
From a shy, lovesick girl in Chamber of Secrets to a formidable member of Dumbledore's Army, Ginny Weasley's journey is one of growth and courage. Her romance with Harry, which felt both unexpected and inevitable, added a heartwarming layer to the series. While the films didn't fully capture her leadership and strength, the books reveal Ginny as a fierce fighter against evil and a symbol of resilience and love.
22. Gilderoy Lockhart
Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and charisma mask his true nature as a fraud. His tenure as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts was marked by vanity and incompetence, culminating in his exposure as a charlatan by Harry and friends. Lockhart's exaggerated tales and eventual downfall add humor and intrigue to the series.
21. Albus Severus Potter
Growing up as the son of the famous Harry Potter, Albus Severus faces immense pressure and identity struggles. Named after two of the greatest wizards, his journey at Hogwarts, fully explored in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, offers a glimpse into the next generation of the Potter family. We hope to see more of his story on the big screen soon.
20. Molly Weasley
Molly Weasley embodies the perfect, nurturing mother, enhanced by her magical abilities. Her unwavering love and support for Harry, treating him like another son, stand out as some of the series' most touching moments. Beyond her maternal warmth, Molly's bravery as a member of the Order of the Phoenix and her fierce protection of her family cement her as a powerful and beloved character.
19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody
Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, a grizzled and legendary Auror, brings a sense of seasoned wisdom and battle-hardened grit to the series. Despite his eccentricities and paranoia, his dedication to the fight against evil and his role in the Order of the Phoenix highlight his bravery and loyalty. His tragic end in Deathly Hallows Part 1 underscores his sacrifice for the greater good.
18. Minerva McGonagall
As the head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts, Minerva McGonagall balances strict discipline with a nurturing, almost aunt-like demeanor. Her dedication to Hogwarts, her role in the Order of the Phoenix, and her unwavering support for Harry throughout his journey at the school make her an integral and cherished part of the series.
17. Delores Umbridge
Dolores Umbridge's presence evokes a visceral reaction from fans, making her one of the most despised characters in the series. Her cruel methods, such as forcing students to self-harm through magical punishment, and her sickly sweet demeanor make her a uniquely loathsome antagonist. J.K. Rowling's creation of Umbridge showcases her ability to craft villains that get under the skin in a way even Voldemort couldn't.
16. Lucius Malfoy
Lucius Malfoy's arrogance and disdain for those he deems beneath him, coupled with his unwavering loyalty to Voldemort, make him a formidable and detestable figure. His role in setting the plot of Chamber of Secrets in motion and his eventual fall from grace in Deathly Hallows Part 1 add depth to his character and the overall narrative.
15. Newt Scamander
Newt Scamander offers a fresh perspective on the wizarding world through his passion for magical creatures. While the Fantastic Beasts series didn't fully explore his potential, Newt's unique character traits and dedication to his work make him a standout hero in the franchise.
14. Remus Lupin
Remus Lupin's gentle nature and personal connection to Harry's parents provide a comforting presence amidst the chaos of Hogwarts. His struggle with his werewolf identity and his unwavering loyalty to the Order of the Phoenix highlight his courage and compassion, making him a beloved character in the series.
13. Luna Lovegood
Luna Lovegood's quirky charm and unwavering belief in the extraordinary make her a delightful addition to the series. Her acceptance into Dumbledore's Army and her friendship with Harry and his companions showcase her bravery and unique perspective, endearing her to fans.
12. Rubeus Hagrid
Rubeus Hagrid's warmth and loyalty make him an essential figure in Harry's life. As a friend and confidant, Hagrid's presence offers comfort and a sense of family to Harry, Hermione, and Ron. His emotional journey with the trio and his unwavering support highlight his significance in the series.
11. Fred and George Weasley
Fred and George Weasley bring humor and mischief to Hogwarts, but their bravery and loyalty shine through in their actions against Umbridge and their role in the fight against Voldemort. Their entrepreneurial spirit and ultimate sacrifice underscore their impact on the series.
10. Bellatrix Lestrange
Bellatrix Lestrange's sadistic joy in causing pain and her loyalty to Voldemort make her one of the most chilling antagonists in the series. Her brutal actions, including the torture of Neville's parents and the murder of Sirius Black, solidify her as a force of pure evil.
9. Draco Malfoy
Draco Malfoy's journey from a schoolyard bully to a conflicted young man tasked with killing Dumbledore adds complexity to his character. His internal struggle and eventual refusal to become a murderer highlight the nuances of his role in the series.
8. Sirius Black
Sirius Black's transformation from a feared escaped convict to Harry's beloved godfather adds depth to the series. His rebellious spirit and the fatherly bond he forms with Harry make his untimely death a poignant loss, leaving a lasting impact on the narrative.
7. Voldemort
Lord Voldemort's sheer malevolence and relentless pursuit of power make him the ultimate antagonist of the series. His backstory as Tom Riddle and his inability to understand love and friendship add layers to his character, making him a formidable and terrifying villain.
6. Neville Longbottom
Neville Longbottom's transformation from a timid, seemingly talentless student to a brave hero is one of the series' most inspiring arcs. His courage during the Battle of Hogwarts and his personal vendetta against Bellatrix Lestrange highlight his growth and impact on the story.
5. Albus Dumbledore
Albus Dumbledore's role as a wise mentor and powerful wizard is central to the series. His eccentric charm and profound wisdom, coupled with his complex backstory and eventual sacrifice, make him a legendary figure in the Harry Potter universe. John Lithgow's casting in the upcoming HBO series adds excitement to the character's future portrayal.
4. Severus Snape
Severus Snape's enigmatic nature and complex motivations make him one of the most debated characters in the series. His role as both a harsh professor and a double agent, driven by love and guilt, adds depth to his character. Alan Rickman's iconic portrayal and the potential casting of Paapa Essiedu in the HBO series keep Snape's legacy alive.
3. Ron Weasley
Ron Weasley's loyalty and humor make him an essential part of the trio. His journey from a supportive friend to a brave fighter against Voldemort, coupled with his evolving relationship with Hermione, adds richness to the series. His moments of doubt and eventual return to his friends highlight his growth and courage.
2. Hermione Granger
Hermione Granger's intelligence and moral compass make her an indispensable ally to Harry and Ron. Her willingness to break rules for the greater good and her evolving relationship with Ron showcase her complexity and growth throughout the series. Her role as "the brightest witch of her age" cements her as a fan favorite.
1. Harry Potter
Harry Potter's journey from an orphaned boy to a courageous hero resonates deeply with fans. His struggle against Voldemort, his growth within the magical world, and his relationships with friends and mentors make him the heart of the series. His imperfections and resilience make him a relatable and inspiring protagonist. As we await the new HBO series, the casting of over 32,000 children for the lead roles signals the excitement and anticipation for the next chapter in Harry's story.
The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters
That concludes our ranking of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our selections? Or do you feel a favorite is missing? Share your thoughts 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 gift ideas. If you're eager to dive deeper into the genre, check out our list of the best books like Harry Potter.
Upcoming Harry Potter
In addition to the highly anticipated Harry Potter HBO TV series, which promises "big-picture storytelling" and a deeper exploration of the Wizarding World, Warner Bros. has confirmed that Hogwarts Legacy 2 is one of its top priorities following the success of the 2023 action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.
