In 2025, the magic of Harry Potter remains as enchanting as ever. To celebrate this enduring legacy, we've delved into both the iconic Harry Potter film and book series to curate a list of the 25 best characters. Our selection process considered fan reactions, the impact on the franchise, 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 section! Now, let's gather in the Great Hall for a magical assembly as we explore the 25 best Harry Potter characters from both the movies and books.
Please note that 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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"Such a beautiful place... to be with friends." These poignant words from Dobby, the house-elf, in Deathly Hallows Part 1, encapsulate his journey from an initially irritating figure to a deeply beloved character. Dobby's presence is more significant in the books than in the films, yet his ultimate sacrifice to save Harry and his friends remains one of the most emotional moments in the series, highlighting his unwavering loyalty and bravery.
24. Gellert Grindelwald
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Once the most feared villain in the wizarding world, Gellert Grindelwald's influence is felt even in the main Harry Potter series, though his full story unfolds in the Fantastic Beasts movies. His complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore and his reign of terror in the early 20th century make him a compelling antagonist, despite the series' premature conclusion.
23. Ginny Weasley
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Ginny Weasley's transformation from a shy, lovesick girl in Chamber of Secrets to a fierce member of Dumbledore's Army showcases her growth and strength. Her romance with Harry feels both unexpected and inevitable, adding depth to the narrative and highlighting her as a pivotal character in the fight against evil.
22. Gilderoy Lockhart
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Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and vanity make him a memorable character in Chamber of Secrets. His false bravado and eventual exposure as a fraud by Harry and his friends reveal the dangers of deceit, making his character both entertaining and cautionary.
21. Albus Severus Potter
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Named after two of the most significant wizards in history, Albus Severus Potter embodies the struggle between fame and anonymity. His story, primarily explored in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, offers a glimpse into the next generation of wizards, with hopes of cinematic representation in the future.
20. Molly Weasley
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Molly Weasley is the epitome of a nurturing, magical mother. Her warmth and care for Harry, alongside her fierce protection of her family, solidify her as a beloved figure. Her iconic confrontation with Bellatrix Lestrange in Deathly Hallows Part 2 showcases her courage and strength.
19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody
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Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, with his grizzled appearance and battle scars, is a legendary Auror whose dedication to fighting evil is unwavering. Despite his eccentricities, his role as a mentor and protector of Harry in the Order of the Phoenix is invaluable, culminating in his heroic sacrifice.
18. Minerva McGonagall
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As the head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress, Minerva McGonagall balances strict discipline with a nurturing spirit. Her loyalty to Hogwarts and its students, especially Harry, and her pivotal role in the Order of the Phoenix, make her a revered figure in the series.
17. Dolores Umbridge
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Dolores Umbridge, with her sickeningly sweet demeanor and cruel methods, is one of the most hated characters in the series. Her oppressive reign at Hogwarts and her impact on Harry make her a formidable antagonist, eliciting strong reactions from fans and solidifying her place on this list.
16. Lucius Malfoy
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Lucius Malfoy's arrogance and dark affiliations set him apart as a powerful and sinister figure. His actions in Chamber of Secrets and his eventual downfall highlight his complexity and the consequences of his choices, making him a compelling character in the series.
15. Newt Scamander
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Newt Scamander, the protagonist of the Fantastic Beasts series, brings a unique perspective to the wizarding world with his passion for magical creatures. Though the series ended prematurely, his character offers a fresh take on heroism, distinct from Harry Potter.
14. Remus Lupin
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Remus Lupin's role as a caring mentor to Harry in Prisoner of Azkaban provides comfort and insight into Harry's parents. His struggle with being a werewolf adds depth to his character, making him a beloved figure in the series for his kindness and bravery.
13. Luna Lovegood
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Luna Lovegood's quirky charm and unwavering belief in herself make her an endearing character. Her friendship with Harry and her role in Dumbledore's Army highlight her bravery and unique perspective, making her a standout in the series.
12. Rubeus Hagrid
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Hagrid's warmth and loyalty to Harry from the very beginning make him a cherished character. His emotional moments and his role as a bridge between the students and the magical world endear him to fans, showcasing the heart of the series.
11. Fred and George Weasley
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The Weasley twins' humor and bravery bring light and courage to the series. Their entrepreneurial spirit and their ultimate sacrifice in the fight against evil showcase their depth, making them beloved and memorable characters.
10. Bellatrix Lestrange
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Bellatrix Lestrange's sadistic joy in evil makes her a terrifying antagonist. Her actions, including the torture of Neville's parents and the murder of Sirius Black, cement her as one of the most feared characters in the series.
9. Draco Malfoy
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Draco Malfoy's journey from a privileged bully to a conflicted young man adds complexity to his character. His struggle with the Dark Lord's demands and his eventual redemption arc make him a compelling figure in the series.
8. Sirius Black
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Sirius Black's innocence and his role as Harry's godfather make him a pivotal character. His rebellious spirit and his tragic end highlight the sacrifices made in the fight against evil, making his character deeply impactful.
7. Voldemort
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Lord Voldemort's pure evil and relentless pursuit of power make him the ultimate antagonist. His fear-inducing presence and the constant threat he poses to Harry keep readers and viewers on edge, making him an iconic villain.
6. Neville Longbottom
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Neville Longbottom's transformation from an unsure student to a brave hero is inspiring. His loyalty and courage, especially in the Battle of Hogwarts, showcase his growth and make him a fan favorite.
5. Albus Dumbledore
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Albus Dumbledore's wisdom and mentorship to Harry make him an iconic figure. His complex character, with both strengths and flaws, adds depth to the series, making him a beloved and respected character.
4. Severus Snape
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Severus Snape's enigmatic nature and his ultimate sacrifice for the greater good make him one of the most discussed characters. His complex relationship with Harry and his loyalty to Dumbledore highlight his depth and make him a standout in the series.
3. Ron Weasley
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Ron Weasley's loyalty and humor make him an essential part of the trio. His growth from a sidekick to a hero in his own right, alongside his relationship with Hermione, add depth to the series and make him a beloved character.
2. Hermione Granger
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Hermione Granger's intelligence and bravery make her a crucial part of the trio. Her development from a rule-following student to a fearless fighter for justice highlights her strength and makes her a fan favorite.
1. Harry Potter
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Harry Potter, the series' protagonist, embodies the classic underdog story. His journey from a neglected child to a courageous hero, facing immense challenges and loss, makes him a universally loved character. His imperfections and growth throughout the series add to his relatability and charm.
And there you have it, our selection of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our choices? 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.
Looking for more Harry Potter? 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 will boast "big-picture storytelling" and "explore the Wizarding World more in depth than you can in a two-hour film," Warner Bros. has confirmed Hogwarts Legacy 2 is one of its "biggest priorities" following the success of 2023's action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.
