Miriam Margolyes’ replacement revealed for new Harry Potter show

The actress, who was born and grew up in Oxford, is well known to audiences around the world after starring as Professor Sprout in several of the Harry Potter films.

Known for her character actor work across film, television, and stage, she received the BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Mrs Mingott in Martin Scorsese’s 1993 film, The Age of Innocence.

One of her other famed roles was as Mother Mildred in the long-running BBC drama programme, Call the Midwife.

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It was announced back in 2023 that American television company HBO would be remaking the Harry Potter films in a series format.

Sirine Saba is taking on the role of Professor Sprout in the upcoming show set in the wizarding world.

Harry Potter television series by Ms Sirine Saba, who has been cast as the herbology professor in the upcoming HBO remake.

The 51-year-old is a British‑Lebanese actress who trained at RADA, with more than two decades of stage experience at Shakespeare’s Globe, the National Theatre and the RSC.

On screen, she is best known for TV roles in Doctor Who, Holby City, Midsomer Murders, Beyond Paradise, EastEnders, Unforgotten and Silent Witness, as well as the award‑nominated feature film The Black Forest.

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Harry Potter has a strong affiliation with Oxford, with the city and Oxford University acting as filming locations for the original film series.

Christ Church College’s staircase and cloisters, along with its Great Hall, served as inspiration for the Hogwarts dining hall and were featured in the movies. 

The Bodleian Library’s Duke Humfrey’s Library was also used as the Hogwarts library, including the restricted section.

Additionally, the Divinity School was also featured in several scenes, including the dance lesson with Professor McGonagall, played by Dame Maggie Smith, who grew up in Oxford.