The wizarding world is expanding, and exciting news is brewing for fans of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Warner Bros. Pictures has announced an open casting call for young actors to step into the shoes of some of the most pivotal characters in the upcoming Fantastic Beasts sequel. This casting call is not just about finding fresh talent; it’s a deep dive into the formative years of characters that have shaped the magical universe we adore.
The studio is on the hunt for young performers to portray teenage versions of not only our beloved magizoologist, Newt Scamander, and the enigmatic Leta Lestrange, but also the complex and powerful figures of Gellert Grindelwald and Albus Dumbledore during their younger days. This ambitious casting signals a narrative that will delve into the rich histories and relationships that predate the events of both the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts series.
Specifically, the call is out for three young actors, aged 13 to 16, to embody the teenage incarnations of Newt Scamander, Leta Lestrange, and a character newly introduced to the cinematic universe named Sebastian. Simultaneously, they are seeking actors between 16 and 18 years old to take on the roles of teenage Gellert Grindelwald and Albus Dumbledore. This dual timeline approach suggests the sequel will explore parallel narratives, bridging the gap between the past and the present.
For enthusiasts deeply immersed in the lore, the prospect of seeing young Dumbledore and Grindelwald is particularly intriguing. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows revealed the intense, complex relationship between Albus and Gellert – from close friends to formidable adversaries. Casting their teenage selves promises to unravel the origins of this pivotal dynamic, offering context to their adult rivalry which will be further explored with Jude Law already cast as the older Albus Dumbledore. The inclusion of young Newt and Leta is equally compelling. Newt’s past has remained largely shrouded in mystery, making any glimpse into his younger years a significant revelation for understanding his character. Leta Lestrange, mentioned in the first Fantastic Beasts film as having a ‘close friendship’ with Newt during their Hogwarts years, and visually represented by a photograph in Newt’s workshop, seems poised for a more substantial role in this sequel. Casting a young Leta strongly indicates that her history with Newt, and potentially her own trajectory, will be a crucial element of the unfolding story.
Open casting calls have become a hallmark of the Wizarding World franchise, known for discovering remarkable talent. Faith Wood-Blagrove’s portrayal of Modesty in Fantastic Beasts emerged from a vast pool of hopefuls, and Evanna Lynch famously won the role of Luna Lovegood after an open call in 2006, selected from 15,000 young women. These success stories underscore the genuine opportunity this casting call presents for aspiring actors.
For those wishing to apply for this incredible opportunity, applications should be emailed to [email protected]. Each application must include a recent color photograph (taken within the last two months), a contact telephone number, home address, and date of birth. Applicants under 18 years of age must have a parent or guardian submit the application on their behalf. Importantly, no prior acting experience is required, making this a truly open door for new talent. However, applicants must be eligible to work in the UK, possessing a UK, Irish, or EU passport, and must be available for filming between August and November 2017. The deadline for applications is Tuesday, 20 June 2017, at midnight GMT. Successful applicants will be contacted within 14 days of submission.
This Fantastic Beasts sequel is set decades before Harry Potter’s time at Hogwarts, during a period of growing darkness in the wizarding world. The film, slated for release on 16 November 2018, with filming commencing this summer, promises to be a significant chapter in the expanding narrative, exploring the intricate backstories of beloved characters and further enriching the tapestry of the wizarding world. The open casting call is more than just a search for actors; it’s an invitation for new talent to become part of the magic.
