Which actor played Harry Potter in the film series based on J.K. Rowling’s books?

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Daniel Radcliffe played Harry Potter in the film series based on J.K. Rowling’s books.

Radcliffe portrayed Harry in all eight Harry Potter films, beginning with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in 2001 and ending with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 in 2011. The films adapted Rowling’s seven main novels, with the final book split into two movies.

Rupert Grint played Ron Weasley and Emma Watson played Hermione Granger, Harry’s two closest friends. The three young actors became internationally recognized through the series and appeared together throughout the central film run.

Radcliffe was selected for the role after casting searches in the United Kingdom. His performance made him the defining on-screen version of Rowling’s protagonist, although the character originated in the novels. The actor later took on many stage and film roles outside the wizarding franchise, including Equus, The Woman in Black and the stage musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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