Magical Glow-Ups: How Harry Potter Stars Have Blossomed Since Leaving Hogwarts!
Warwick Davis – Professor Flitwick
Onscreen, Warwick Davis wielded a wand as the wizardly Professor Flitwick, his character’s whimsicality embodied by wild white hair and an expressive face. Today, free from the fantastical garb, Warwick’s approachable demeanor shines through, his charisma undiminished by the absence of the silver screen’s special effects.
His post-Potter pursuits have been anything but diminutive, spanning from galaxies far, far away in “Star Wars” to the witty repartee of a game show host in “Tenable.” His evolution showcases a dexterity that transcends the bounds of genre and medium. Warwick’s ability to pivot from the enchanted to the entertaining demonstrates a breadth of talent that continues to delight audiences in every arena.
Emma Watson – Hermione Granger
Once the know-it-all wizard in training, Emma Watson, has swapped her Gryffindor robes for the chic elegance of modern fashion. Emma’s portrayal of Hermione Granger, the brilliant Muggle-born witch in “Harry Potter,” made her a household name.
Her transformation from the frizzy-haired bookworm to the poised and polished figure has been nothing short of magical. Since leaving the halls of Hogwarts, she’s graced the screen in roles that range from the feisty Belle in “Beauty and the Beast” to the ambitious Meg in “Little Women.” Off-screen, she’s a vocal advocate for women’s rights, bringing a touch of Hermione’s fervor to her activism.
Daniel Radcliffe – Harry Potter
Gone is the boy with the lightning bolt scar and oversized spectacles; Daniel Radcliffe has emerged from the cupboard under the stairs with a style as dapper as can be. His journey began as the titular hero of “Harry Potter,” where he brought to life the trials and triumphs of the Boy Who Lived.
Beyond the wizarding world, Daniel has shown a penchant for the eclectic, from the beat poet Allen Ginsberg in “Kill Your Darlings” to a role as an undercover FBI agent in “Imperium.” With each role as distinct as the last, Daniel proves his versatility extends far beyond the magical realm.
Rupert Grint – Ron Weasley
From the cheeky, freckled face of Ron Weasley to the poised countenance of a seasoned actor, Rupert Grint’s transformation mirrors the maturation of his career. As the loyal best friend in the “Harry Potter” series, his youthful charm was as bright as his fiery hair. Now, he presents a more polished, yet still accessible, demeanor.
Post-Potter, Rupert has explored various roles, embodying the shady yet humorous world of “Snatch,” and delving into the comedic misadventures of “Sick Note.” His work in “Servant” since 2019 showcases his ability to evoke tension and intrigue, and his character in “The ABC Murders” confirms his skill for bringing depth to his roles.
Afshan Azad – Padma Patil
Once known as Padma Patil, the Yule Ball-ready witch from “Harry Potter,” Afshan Azad’s journey from Hogwarts to Instagram has been nothing short of magical. Her transformation is clear: from the demure schoolgirl on the left, we see her now dazzling with the confidence of a social media maven.
Afshan’s world after the show is woven with the threads of fashion and lifestyle influencing, where she regularly charms a legion of followers on social media. While she may not be conjuring Patronuses these days, her spellbinding presence as an influencer and model shows she’s still very much in the business of enchantment.
Natalia Tena – Nymphadora Tonks
Natalia Tena, with her shape-shifting hair as the ever-vibrant Tonks, really knew how to make an entrance into the wizarding world. She’s not just a one-trick pony though; from the halls of Hogwarts to the wilds of Westeros, she’s proved her mettle as Osha in “Game of Thrones.” And if you think her talents stop there, guess again!
She’s rocked stages with her band Molotov Jukebox, giving ‘magical’ a whole new sound. Plus, you might have caught her stirring up trouble in space in “Origin” or bringing depth to “The Mandalorian.” Natalia’s roles are as colorful as Tonks’s hair—unpredictable and completely enthralling!
Scarlett Byrne – Pansy Parkinson
Scarlett Byrne first appeared in the Harry Potter series as Pansy Parkinson, the Slytherin with a sharp tongue and a haughty demeanor, a stark contrast to the poised and polished woman on the right. In the left image, her character’s scowl is as much a part of her uniform as the Slytherin crest.
Today, Scarlett’s presence is marked by a soft confidence, far removed from Pansy’s sneer. After her time at Hogwarts, she ventured into new territories, like the sci-fi series “Falling Skies” (2014-2015) and the drama “The Vampire Diaries” (2017), proving her acting range extends beyond the school of witchcraft and wizardry.
Evanna Lynch – Luna Lovegood
Evanna Lynch may not have been sorted into Gryffindor alongside Harry Potter, but her portrayal of Luna Lovegood in the film series is no less magical. Luna, with her eccentric style and unwavering belief in creatures like Wrackspurts, was a breath of fresh air in Gryffindor’s world. Remember her radish earrings and her dreamy pronouncements?
Evanna landed the role in 2006 at the tender age of 14, beating out over 15,000 other hopefuls. Since then, Evanna’s career has gone from strength to strength. She’s landed roles in films like “GBF” and has even become a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, something she’s quite passionate about.
Matthew Lewis – Neville Longbottom
Matthew Lewis is widely recognized for his transformation from the bumbling Neville Longbottom, a character whose hidden bravery and growth mirrored his own, to a polished actor whose left-side image shows him clutching the Gryffindor sword. The young, awkward student at Hogwarts has evolved into the confident man on the right, trading his school vest for a sleek, black-tie ensemble.
Matthew has built a solid acting portfolio, including a role in the war drama “Bluestone 42” (2013-2015) and the romantic lead in “Me Before You” (2016). His remarkable evolution from Neville’s uncertain early days to roles of increasing depth and nuance speaks to a journey marked by tenacity and talent.
James and Oliver Phelps – Fred and George Weasley
The Phelps twins, renowned for their roles as Fred and George Weasley, have always been the epitome of unity and shared mischief. Their transition from Hogwarts’ corridors to real-world settings sees them exchanging their knitted jumpers for sharp, contemporary suits. The same spark that defined their “Harry Potter” characters is evident in their matured personas.
Diverging from their shared screen presence, James explored dramatic depths in “Cadavers” while Oliver showed his range in “7 Days: The Story of Blind Dave Heeley.” Their individual pursuits in acting demonstrate that the Phelps twins can captivate audiences both together and apart, with an ever-growing list of versatile performances.
David Thewlis – Remus Lupin
Known for his portrayal of the nuanced Professor Lupin in “Harry Potter,” David Thewlis brought a sense of gravitas and vulnerability to the beloved character, evident in the pensive gaze and professorial attire of the left image. Transitioning to a diverse cinematic landscape, the other image shows David with an ease that comes from years in the industry, looking sharp and contemporary.
His post-Harry Potter endeavors have seen him in the gritty television series “Fargo” in 2017, and as a god in the “Wonder Woman” franchise, demonstrating his versatility as an actor. David’s journey reflects an artist capable of remarkable transformation, continually surprising audiences with the breadth of his craft.
Katie Leung – Cho Chang
Katie Leung made her mark as the gentle, yet strong-willed Cho Chang, a character remembered for her grace under pressure in the “Harry Potter” films. In the image on the left, she embodies the poised student from Ravenclaw house. Fast forward, and Katie’s more mature appearance on the right reveals a readiness to engage with more complex narratives.
Her post-Potter career includes an acclaimed performance in the theater adaptation of “Wild Swans” (2012) and a leading role in the gripping drama “One Child” (2014). This evolution speaks to a career that refuses to be pigeonholed, showcasing Katie’s commitment to her evolving craft.
Timothy Spall – Peter Pettigrew
From portraying the cowering Peter Pettigrew to captivating audiences with his distinguished roles, Timothy pall has truly shown his range. The menacing look of Pettigrew on the left is a far cry from the polished gentleman on the right, where his sharp attire and poised stance speak to an actor of substantial depth.
Timothy’s performances have consistently drawn acclaim, notably in “Mr. Turner” and as a haunted man in “The Enfield Haunting.” His talent for completely inhabiting his characters, whether they are based on historical figures or fictional creations, has kept him at the forefront of British cinema and television, always delivering memorable and transformative performances.
Brendon Gleeson – Mad-eye Moody
Brendan Gleeson, with his wild mane and the iconic Mad-Eye Moody magical eye on the left, was the embodiment of the grizzled Auror in “Harry Potter.” His portrayal brimmed with a gruff exterior hiding a protective heart. In contrast, the other image shows Brendan’s transformation into a figure of elegance and composure, his features now suggesting wisdom and experience.
His roles after the show have been diverse, from a small-town priest in “Calvary” (2014) to a gangster in “Live by Night” (2016), each performance further cementing his reputation as a versatile actor capable of bringing depth and humanity to a range of characters.
Emma Thompson – Sybill Trelawney
In the “Harry Potter” films, Emma Thompson’s Sybill Trelawney was a vision of eccentricity, her left-side image showing the disheveled diviner with her oversized spectacles. Moving to the image on the right, Emma exudes confidence and vivacity, proof of her ability to transcend character types.
Her roles after Hogwarts have been no less varied, playing the enchanting Mrs. Potts in “Beauty and the Beast” and showcasing her comedic talent in “Late Night.” Emma demonstrates her range with each performance, never confined to the misty-eyed seer she once portrayed but constantly expanding into new and diverse characters with authenticity and wit.
Jim Broadbent – Horace Slughorn
Jim Broadbent delighted audiences as the affable Professor Horace Slughorn in the Harry Potter series, his portrayal balancing Slughorn’s joviality with a touch of slyness, as captured on the left. He’s seen donning a professor’s cap and a warm, welcoming smile.
Transition to the right, and we find Jim exuding a clean-cut, scholarly vibe in a crisp white shirt, his cheerful demeanor undiminished by time. Since his potion-mixing days, Jim has continued to impress, with roles such as the steadfast lawyer in “The Sense of an Ending” (2017) and a star turn in the television series “London Spy” (2015).
David Tennant – Barty Crouch Jr.
In “Harry Potter,” David Tennant’s Barty Crouch Jr. was all about the dark arts and sinister plots, but there’s a twinkle in his eye that hinted at more than just mischief. On the left, he’s every bit the composed conspirator, but off-screen, shown on the right, David’s all charm and grins, swapping the villain’s suit for a playful sweater.
From the mind-bending twists of “Doctor Who” to the gritty realism of “Broadchurch,” David’s roles are as varied as they are captivating. It’s clear that behind those intense roles lies a man with a penchant for the eclectic and infectious energy that lights up the screen.
Fiona Shaw – Petunia Dursley
Fiona Shaw once stood prim and proper as the strict Petunia Dursley, her every look conveying a silent reproach in the Harry Potter films. Today, her evolution as an actress reflects a depth that moves beyond the confines of Privet Drive. Shedding Petunia’s pearls and polished facade, Fiona now embraces roles that showcase her dynamic range, such as the sharp-witted intelligence operative in “Killing Eve” and the diplomatic yet troubled lead in “Baptiste.”
The contrast is striking: the reserved aunt has given way to characters that are as complex as they are captivating, proving Fiona’s artistic journey is one marked by daring choices and memorable performances.
Warwick Davis – Professor Flitwick
Onscreen, Warwick Davis wielded a wand as the wizardly Professor Flitwick, his character’s whimsicality embodied by wild white hair and an expressive face. Today, free from the fantastical garb, Warwick’s approachable demeanor shines through, his charisma undiminished by the absence of the silver screen’s special effects.
His post-Potter pursuits have been anything but diminutive, spanning from galaxies far, far away in “Star Wars” to the witty repartee of a game show host in “Tenable.” His evolution showcases a dexterity that transcends the bounds of genre and medium. Warwick’s ability to pivot from the enchanted to the entertaining demonstrates a breadth of talent that continues to delight audiences in every arena.
Domhnall Gleeson – Bill Weasley
Bill Weasley, played by the talented Domhnall Gleeson, might not have had the most significant role in Harry Potter, but he definitely left his mark. We first met Bill as the cool older brother, a curse-breaker for Gringotts Wizarding Bank who tamed creatures ten times scarier than Malfoy’s smirk.
But Domhnall’s career since then has been a whirlwind! In 2013, he starred alongside Rachel McAdams in the time-traveling rom-com “About Time,” proving he can handle both action and romance. He’s also shown his dramatic chops in films like “Ex Machina” and “The Revenant,” even facing off against Leonardo DiCaprio in the freezing wilderness.
Jason Isaacs – Lucius Malfoy
Jason Isaacs might be best known for his icy portrayal of Draco Malfoy’s father, Lucius, in the Harry Potter films. Lucius starts off as a powerful, arrogant Death Eater—a follower of the evil Lord Voldemort. But as the story progresses, Lucius loses his influence and even faces imprisonment.
Of course, Jason is much more than just Lucius Malfoy. He’s a talented British actor who’s played various roles, from villains like Captain Hook in Peter Pan (2003) to complex characters like Captain Lorca in Star Trek: Discovery (2014-2017). With a successful career spanning decades, it’s clear Jason Isaacs has carved out a unique space in the entertainment world.
Tom Felton – Draco Malfoy
Platinum blond hair, a mischievous smirk, wand extended for a duel—that’s Draco Malfoy in full swing. Beside him, a grown-up Tom Felton, all smiles in a sharp suit. This side-by-side picture captures the transformation of both the character and the actor.
Draco, the conniving Slytherin foil to Harry Potter, may not have gotten the Golden Snitch, but Tom certainly did. After eight films playing the Malfoy heir, Tom’s career took off. He starred in movies like “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” and even landed a role in “The Flash.” In 2022, he released a memoir, “Beyond the Wand,” sharing behind-the-scenes secrets from his Hogwarts days.
Mark Williams – Arthur Weasley
In the wizarding world, Mark Williams brought warmth and whimsy to the role of Arthur Weasley, a father figure with a passion for all things Muggle. Clad in the garb of a curious and caring wizard, his left-side image is instantly recognizable to “Harry Potter” fans worldwide.
On the other side, we see Mark today, exchanging the knitted sweaters for a sleek suit, his expression still bearing the friendly openness of Mr. Weasley. Expanding his acting repertoire, Mark has donned the collar of a crime-solving cleric in “Father Brown,” captivating audiences with his investigative acumen since 2013. This seamless transition reflects the dynamic breadth of Mark’s talent.
Devon Murray – Seamus Finnigan
This split image showcases the remarkable transformation of Devon Murray, the actor who brought Seamus Finnigan to life in the Harry Potter film series. On the left, we see Seamus, the red-haired Gryffindor with a penchant for pyrotechnics (albeit often unintended). On the right, we find Devon, a mature and accomplished actor.
Devon’s portrayal of Seamus captivated audiences for eight films. Following his time at Hogwarts, Devon carved a successful path in the acting world. He has consistently secured roles in various projects, demonstrating his versatility beyond the iconic wizarding world. Notably, in 2017, Devon bravely shared his experiences with mental health, raising awareness and inspiring others.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login