Eddie Redmayne may go from the world of science to the world of magic if Warner Bros. has their way. Variety is reporting that fresh off his Oscar win, The Theory of Everything actor is the favorite to play lead character Newt Scamander in the Harry Potter spinoff film Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.
J.K. Rowling is making her screenwriting debut on the film, which is going to be the first in at least a trilogy, if not more. Here’s the official status from Variety:
Redmayne recently wrapped Tom Hooper’s The Danish Girl and has yet to receive an official offer. Director David Yates is still also considering a few other actors for the part but the role, according to sources, is Redmayne’s to lose.
Newt Scamander is a ‘magiczoologist,’ which essentially equates to a person that studies magical creatures. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is – in the words of Rowling – “neither a prequel nor a sequel to the Harry Potter series,” but instead will take place in the same wizarding world as the Harry Potter films. In addition to Newt, there are two American girls and two American boys that need to be added to the cast in main roles.
Redmayne seems to be spot on casting for the character, and would be a perfect fit in the wonderfully British and quirky Harry Potter world. I have to admit I had my heart set on the rumors that former Doctor Who star Matt Smith was close to the role, but Redmayne brings WAY more A-list credibility to the table, along with that shiny gold statue. This project will be very interesting to watch as it continues to develop, and further casting will certainly give a clearer picture of what the film will eventually become. As always, we’ll keep you posted.
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