It’s been rumoured for a couple of months, but now it’s official – Oscar winner Eddie Redmayne (The Theory of Everything) has signed on to appear as Newt Scamander in the Harry Potter spin-off Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.
“Eddie is a fearless actor, brimming with invention, wit and humanity,” said David Yates, who is set to direct the first instalment of the planned trilogy. “I couldn’t be more excited about the prospect of working with him as we start this new adventure in J.K. Rowling’s wonderful world, and I know she feels the same way.”
Taking place some 70 years before the Harry Potter series, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them focuses on “magizoologist” Newt Scamander, the author of the titular textbook used at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The film is slated for release on November 18th 2016.
Originally published June 3, 2015. Updated April 15, 2018.
