The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters From the Movies and Books

In 2025, the Harry Potter franchise continues to captivate audiences worldwide, celebrating its enduring legacy through both its iconic films and beloved books. To honor this phenomenon, we've curated a list of the 25 best characters from the Harry Potter universe, based on fan reactions, their impact on the series, and their significance within the Potter mythos. Before we dive into our selections, remember that this list excludes characters from "Hogwarts Legacy" and remains unaffected by the upcoming Harry Potter series.

Join us in the Great Hall as we explore these remarkable characters.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

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25. Dobby

Dobby, the endearing house-elf, first appears as a somewhat annoying figure in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets." Yet, his noble intentions and unwavering loyalty to Harry, especially evident in his ultimate sacrifice in "The Deathly Hallows Part 1," leave a lasting impact. His poignant last words, "Such a beautiful place... to be with friends," encapsulate his selfless nature and the deep bond he shared with Harry.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

Gellert Grindelwald, once the most feared dark wizard before Voldemort, showcases his menacing presence in the main series and the "Fantastic Beasts" films. His complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore and his reign of terror in the early 20th century make him a compelling antagonist, despite the premature end of the "Fantastic Beasts" series.

23. Ginny Weasley

Ginny Weasley's journey from a shy, lovesick girl to a fierce member of Dumbledore's Army is inspiring. Her romance with Harry feels both unexpected and inevitable, adding depth to her character. In the books, her leadership and bravery shine brightly, making her a beloved figure in the series.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and vanity make him a memorable character. His exaggerated tales of heroism and subsequent exposure as a fraud by Harry and his friends in "The Chamber of Secrets" provide both humor and a lesson in humility, making him a standout figure in the series.

21. Albus Severus Potter

Albus Severus Potter, Harry's son, embodies the struggle between fame and anonymity. Named after two of the most significant wizards in history, his story unfolds in "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," offering a glimpse into the next generation of the wizarding world.

20. Molly Weasley

Molly Weasley, the epitome of a loving mother, extends her warmth to Harry, treating him like one of her own. Her fierce protectiveness and courage, especially evident in her battle against Bellatrix Lestrange, showcase her strength and depth beyond her nurturing role.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, the grizzled Auror, brings a sense of battle-hardened wisdom to the series. Despite his eccentricities and paranoia, his dedication to protecting Harry and fighting against Voldemort's forces solidifies his place as a key figure in the Order of the Phoenix.

18. Minerva McGonagall

Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet caring head of Gryffindor, embodies the perfect balance of discipline and compassion. Her role in the Order of the Phoenix and her unwavering support for Harry throughout his time at Hogwarts make her an essential part of the series.

17. Dolores Umbridge

Dolores Umbridge, the detestable Ministry official, evokes strong emotions with her cruel methods and oppressive rule at Hogwarts. Her presence in "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" highlights the darker aspects of bureaucratic power, making her a uniquely loathsome villain.

16. Lucius Malfoy

Lucius Malfoy, the arrogant and influential Death Eater, plays a pivotal role in the series, particularly in "The Chamber of Secrets." His fall from grace and complex relationship with his son Draco add layers to his character, making him a compelling antagonist.

15. Newt Scamander

Newt Scamander, the protagonist of the "Fantastic Beasts" series, brings a fresh perspective to the wizarding world with his passion for magical creatures. His unique personality and adventures offer a different yet enriching addition to the Harry Potter universe.

14. Remus Lupin

Remus Lupin, the compassionate werewolf and Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, provides Harry with much-needed guidance and insight into his parents' lives. His struggle with his lycanthropy and his role in the Order of the Phoenix make him a deeply sympathetic and admirable character.

13. Luna Lovegood

Luna Lovegood, the quirky Ravenclaw, adds a unique charm to the series. Her unwavering belief in the extraordinary and her bravery in joining Dumbledore's Army make her a beloved and inspiring character.

12. Rubeus Hagrid

Rubeus Hagrid, the gentle giant, serves as Harry's first friend in the wizarding world. His loyalty, warmth, and love for magical creatures make him an integral part of Harry's journey, providing comfort and support throughout the series.

11. Fred and George Weasley

Fred and George Weasley, the mischievous twins, bring humor and light-heartedness to the series. Their bravery and entrepreneurial spirit, especially evident in their stand against Umbridge and their ultimate sacrifice, make them unforgettable characters.

10. Bellatrix Lestrange

Bellatrix Lestrange, the sadistic Death Eater, embodies pure evil with her delight in cruelty. Her actions, from torturing Neville's parents to murdering Sirius Black, cement her as one of the most terrifying villains in the series.

9. Draco Malfoy

Draco Malfoy, Harry's school rival, evolves from a petty bully to a complex character struggling with his family's expectations and his own morality. His failed attempt to kill Dumbledore and his eventual redemption arc make him a fascinating figure.

8. Sirius Black

Sirius Black, Harry's godfather, represents the family Harry never had. His rebellious spirit and deep bond with Harry, despite his tragic end, make him a beloved and poignant character in the series.

7. Voldemort

Lord Voldemort, the ultimate antagonist, embodies pure evil and fear. His relentless pursuit of power and immortality, coupled with his chilling backstory, make him a formidable and unforgettable villain.

6. Neville Longbottom

Neville Longbottom's transformation from a timid boy to a courageous hero is one of the most inspiring arcs in the series. His bravery in the Battle of Hogwarts and his role in Dumbledore's Army highlight his growth and importance.

5. Albus Dumbledore

Albus Dumbledore, the wise and enigmatic headmaster, serves as a mentor and guiding light for Harry. His complex character, marked by both brilliance and flaws, adds depth to the series, making him an iconic figure in literature and film.

4. Severus Snape

Severus Snape, the enigmatic potions master, is one of the most debated characters in the series. His complex motivations, driven by love and guilt, and his ultimate sacrifice for Harry's cause make him a deeply compelling figure.

3. Ron Weasley

Ron Weasley, Harry's loyal best friend, brings humor and heart to the series. His bravery, despite his fears, and his evolving relationship with Hermione showcase his growth and importance to the trio's dynamic.

2. Hermione Granger

Hermione Granger, the brilliant and resourceful witch, is the voice of reason and moral compass for the trio. Her intelligence, courage, and unwavering loyalty to her friends make her an essential and beloved character.

1. Harry Potter

Harry Potter, the series' protagonist, embodies the classic hero's journey. From his humble beginnings to his battle against Voldemort, Harry's courage, resilience, and growth captivate audiences, making him the heart of the Harry Potter universe.

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? 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 other Harry Potter gift ideas. If you're eager for more magical adventures, check out our list of the best books like Harry Potter.

Upcoming Harry Potter Projects

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 among its top priorities following the success of the 2023 action RPG "Hogwarts Legacy."