Hollywood has a not-so-mysterious way of casting who they want for roles in films and television shows with major IPs. There is usually a breadcrumb trail that you can trace back to a few previous projects that will help you understand why a choice was made for a particular actor.

HBO's series adaptation of "Harry Potter" may have found its Dumbledore. John Lithgow is close to closing a deal to portray the iconic character, according to multiple media reports. The series is expected to begin filming this summer in Leavesden.

The two-time Oscar nominee, who has played the likes of Winston Churchill and Roald Dahl before, could become the first confirmed named for the new show.