In 2025, the enchanting world of Harry Potter continues to captivate fans around the globe. To celebrate this enduring franchise, we've compiled a list of the 25 best characters from both the Harry Potter films and books. Our selection criteria encompass fan reactions, the characters' impact on the series, their relevance to iconic moments, and their significance within the Potter mythos. If you feel your favorite characters are missing, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section!
Join us in the Great Hall for this special assembly as we delve into the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books.
Note: 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
Dobby, the loyal house-elf, touched hearts with his selfless sacrifice in Deathly Hallows Part 1. Though initially annoying, Dobby's noble intentions and unwavering dedication to Harry Potter won over fans. His role in the books showcases his kindness and loyalty more extensively than in the films, but his poignant final moments remain unforgettable across both mediums.
24. Gellert Grindelwald
Gellert Grindelwald, once the most feared villain in the wizarding world, briefly appeared in the main Harry Potter series but came into his own in the Fantastic Beasts films. His complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore and his reign of terror in the early 20th century made him a compelling antagonist, despite the series' premature end.
23. Ginny Weasley
Ginny Weasley, Harry's love interest, blossomed from a shy girl into a fierce member of Dumbledore's Army. Her romance with Harry felt both surprising and inevitable, and her leadership in the fight against evil showcased her strength and determination. Ginny embodies the perfect blend of courage and charm.
22. Gilderoy Lockhart
Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and vanity made him a memorable character. His exaggerated claims of heroism and subsequent exposure as a fraud added humor and intrigue to the series. Lockhart's downfall at Hogwarts served as a cautionary tale about the perils of arrogance and deceit.
21. Albus Severus Potter
Albus Severus Potter, Harry's son, carries the weight of his father's legacy and his namesake's history. His struggle with identity and the pressures of fame add depth to the Potter family narrative. While his story continues in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, fans eagerly await his cinematic debut.
20. Molly Weasley
Molly Weasley epitomizes the perfect, nurturing mother, offering Harry the love and support he desperately needed. Her fierce protection of her family, especially in her battle against Bellatrix Lestrange, showcased her courage and strength. Molly's warmth and bravery made her a beloved character.
19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody
Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, the grizzled Auror, brought a unique blend of paranoia and bravery to the series. Despite his mental scars, Moody's dedication to protecting Harry and fighting against Voldemort's forces made him an unforgettable figure. His tragic end in Deathly Hallows Part 1 highlighted his ultimate sacrifice.
18. Minerva McGonagall
Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet caring head of Gryffindor, balanced discipline with warmth. Her role in the Order of the Phoenix and her unwavering support for Harry demonstrated her commitment to the fight against evil. McGonagall's blend of strictness and kindness made her a fan favorite.
17. Delores Umbridge
Dolores Umbridge, with her sickeningly sweet demeanor and cruel actions, became one of the most hated characters in the series. Her oppressive rule at Hogwarts and her torture of students, including Harry, made her a chilling antagonist. Umbridge's impact on fans was profound, solidifying her place on this list.
16. Lucius Malfoy
Lucius Malfoy's arrogance and dark deeds made him a formidable foe. His role in setting off the plot of Chamber of Secrets and his unwavering loyalty to Voldemort showcased his villainy. Lucius's fall from grace in Deathly Hallows Part 1 added depth to his character, making him a compelling antagonist.
15. Newt Scamander
Newt Scamander, the quirky hero of the Fantastic Beasts series, introduced fans to a new side of the wizarding world. His passion for magical creatures and his awkward charm made him a refreshing addition to the franchise. Though the series ended prematurely, Newt's impact remains significant.
14. Remus Lupin
Remus Lupin provided Harry with comfort and guidance during a tumultuous time. As a former friend of Harry's parents, Lupin offered personal insights into their lives, enriching Harry's understanding of his past. His struggle with being a werewolf added complexity to his character, making him a beloved mentor and friend.
13. Luna Lovegood
Luna Lovegood's eccentricity and kindness endeared her to fans. Her unique perspective and unwavering support for Harry and his friends made her an integral part of the series. Luna's role in Dumbledore's Army and her unwavering optimism in the face of adversity highlighted her bravery and charm.
12. Rubeus Hagrid
Rubeus Hagrid, the gentle giant, provided Harry with friendship and support from the very beginning. His emotional connection to Harry, Hermione, and Ron, and his role as a surrogate for the audience, made him a cherished character. Hagrid's heartfelt moments, like his walk through the woods in Goblet of Fire, remain iconic.
11. Fred and George Weasley
Fred and George Weasley, the mischievous twins, brought humor and bravery to the series. Their entrepreneurial spirit and pranks added levity, while their courage in leaving Hogwarts to fight against Umbridge showcased their heroism. Fred's ultimate sacrifice highlighted the twins' impact on the story.
10. Bellatrix Lestrange
Bellatrix Lestrange's sadistic nature and delight in evil made her one of the most terrifying villains in the series. Her torture of Neville's parents and her murder of Sirius Black cemented her villainy. Bellatrix's brutal actions, including the murder of Dobby, left a lasting impact on fans.
9. Draco Malfoy
Draco Malfoy, Harry's school rival, evolved from a simple antagonist to a complex character. His struggle with the task of killing Dumbledore and his internal conflict added depth to his story. Draco's journey from arrogance to vulnerability made him a fascinating character to follow.
8. Sirius Black
Sirius Black, Harry's godfather, brought a sense of family and rebellion to the series. His tragic past and his bond with Harry made his character deeply moving. Sirius's untimely death left a void in Harry's life, emphasizing the emotional impact of his loss.
7. Voldemort
Lord Voldemort, the ultimate embodiment of evil, captivated fans with his relentless pursuit of power. His backstory as Tom Riddle and his inability to comprehend love and friendship made him a chilling antagonist. Voldemort's reign of terror and his final battle with Harry remain central to the series' narrative.
6. Neville Longbottom
Neville Longbottom's transformation from a shy, clumsy boy to a brave hero was inspiring. His loyalty to his friends and his courage in the face of danger, especially during the Battle of Hogwarts, showcased his growth. Neville's journey resonated deeply with fans, making him a beloved character.
5. Albus Dumbledore
Albus Dumbledore, the wise and eccentric headmaster, served as a mentor and guide to Harry. His battles with Voldemort and his complex past added depth to his character. Dumbledore's death left a profound impact on the series, and his legacy as a great wizard continues to inspire fans.
4. Severus Snape
Severus Snape's complex nature and ambiguous morality made him one of the most debated characters. His love for Lily Potter and his role as a double agent added layers to his story. Snape's ultimate sacrifice and his revelation as a hero left a lasting impression on fans.
3. Ron Weasley
Ron Weasley, Harry's loyal best friend, brought humor and heart to the series. His bravery in facing his fears and his unwavering support for Harry and Hermione made him an essential part of the trio. Ron's journey from insecurity to confidence resonated with fans, solidifying his place on this list.
2. Hermione Granger
Hermione Granger, the brilliant and compassionate witch, was more than just a sidekick. Her logic, bravery, and willingness to break the rules for the greater good made her an invaluable ally. Hermione's development from a rule-abiding student to a fearless fighter showcased her complexity and strength.
1. Harry Potter
Harry Potter, the boy who lived, captured the hearts of fans worldwide. His journey from an orphan under the stairs to a hero facing the ultimate evil resonated with audiences. Harry's imperfections, his deep connections with his friends and surrogate family, and his battle against Voldemort made him an iconic character.
That's our list 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.
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 looking for more magical reads, check out our list of the best books like Harry Potter.
Upcoming Harry Potter:
In addition to the eagerly anticipated 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 top priority following the success of the 2023 action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.
