The 30 Best Fan-Favorite Harry Potter Characters Ranked (2024)

A story of magic, friendship, and adventure, J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series has become a monumental part of popular culture since its inception in 1997. Characters in the Harry Potter series are distinctive, complex, and remarkably well-crafted. They range from the extraordinarily brave to the cunningly villainous.

Each character, whether a beloved protagonist, a despised antagonist, or even a misunderstood sidekick, adds depth and charm to the story, making the Harry Potter universe feel incredibly real and relatable.

These characters, with their unique personalities and compelling backstories, have deeply resonated with audiences, creating a massive fanbase with diverse preferences and affinities. Consequently, the fandom’s favorites span a wide array, with every character claiming a special place in someone’s heart.

In this article, we will delve into the 30 fan-favorite characters from the Harry Potter series. These characters have been chosen based on their popularity within the fandom, their impact on the series, and the lasting impression they’ve made on readers and viewers alike.

30. Moaning Mrytle

Moaning Myrtle, known for her haunting of the second-floor girls’ bathroom at Hogwarts, is a memorable character from the Harry Potter series. She became a fan favorite due to her distinctive personality, tragic backstory, and integral role in the events of “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets”.

Despite her often morose demeanor, Myrtle provides comic relief, and her interactions with Harry and his friends are always engaging. Her character also highlights the less glamorous side of the wizarding world, bringing depth to the series.

29. Alastor ‘Mad-Eye’ Moody

A seasoned Auror and member of the Order of the Phoenix, Alastor ‘Mad-Eye’ Moody is a character who commands respect. Known for his paranoia and ‘constant vigilance’ mantra, Moody’s no-nonsense attitude and hard exterior hides a genuine dedication to fighting dark magic.

His distinctive physical appearance, notably his magical eye and wooden leg, make him instantly recognizable. Moody’s role in “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” significantly impacts the series’ trajectory, earning him a spot among fan favorites.

28. Arthur Weasley

Arthur Weasley, the patriarch of the Weasley family, is a character whose love for his family and fascination with Muggle technology endears him to fans. Known for his kind-hearted and humble nature, Arthur is a stalwart ally to Harry throughout the series.

Despite facing financial hardship, Arthur never allows it to affect his cheerfulness and hospitality, offering Harry a loving home away from his unpleasant relatives. His character serves as a positive role model, demonstrating the importance of family, loyalty, and standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.

27. The Sorting Hat

Although not a character in the conventional sense, the Sorting Hat plays a pivotal role in the Harry Potter series. This centuries-old sentient hat is responsible for sorting new Hogwarts students into one of the four houses: Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin, based on their qualities and potential.

Its yearly song, unique to each book, is a fan-favorite moment, offering insights into Hogwarts’ history or even giving cryptic warnings. The Sorting Hat also showcases a certain level of wisdom and sagacity, providing guidance to characters like Harry and Neville in critical moments. It embodies the values of all four houses, symbolizing the spirit and unity of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

26. Cedric Diggory

Cedric Diggory, a pivotal character in “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire,” embodies the qualities of a true Hufflepuff: hard work, fairness, and loyalty. His character is both charming and gallant, and he is admired by many for his sportsmanship and integrity. As Hogwarts’ choice for the Triwizard Tournament, he competes bravely and honorably, making his untimely death at the hands of Voldemort’s followers all the more tragic.

Cedric’s demise marks a significant turning point in the series, signifying the end of Harry’s innocence and the beginning of the Second Wizarding War. His legacy resonates with fans, making him one of the beloved characters in the series.

25. Bellatrix Lestrange

Bellatrix Lestrange, a dedicated and ruthless Death Eater, is one of the most menacing characters in the Harry Potter series. Her unwavering loyalty to Voldemort, coupled with her sadistic pleasure in causing harm, makes her a character fans love to hate. Yet, her complexity, intensity, and unpredictability also make her compelling to watch.

Her role in the series is pivotal, from her breakout from Azkaban in “Order of the Phoenix” to her ultimate downfall in “Deathly Hallows.” Bellatrix’s death at the hands of Molly Weasley, in particular, is one of the series’ most satisfying moments for many fans. Despite her villainy, Bellatrix’s charisma, complexity, and the sheer force of her character make her a fan favorite.

24. Cho Chang

Cho Chang is a notable character in the Harry Potter series due to her role as Harry’s first romantic interest. A member of Ravenclaw house and the Seeker for their Quidditch team, Cho is initially admired from afar by Harry before becoming a more central character in the fourth and fifth books.

She is known for her kindness, although she is also seen as somewhat emotional, particularly in the wake of Cedric Diggory’s death. Despite their relationship not working out, Cho’s influence on Harry’s emotional growth is undeniable. Her character allows readers to explore Harry’s emotional side and the normal adolescent experiences he goes through amidst the ongoing conflict with Voldemort.

23. Ginny Weasley

The youngest of the Weasley clan and the only daughter, Ginny Weasley grows significantly throughout the series. Among her many accomplishments, she becomes a member of Dumbledore’s Army, fights in the Battle of Hogwarts, and is an accomplished Quidditch player, serving as the Seeker and later Chaser for the Gryffindor team.

In her professional career, Ginny goes on to play Quidditch for the Holyhead Harpies before becoming the senior Quidditch correspondent for the Daily Prophet. Her courage, resilience, and determination make Ginny a significant and admirable character in the Harry Potter series.

22. Gellert Grindelwald

Gellert Grindelwald, a Dark Wizard who rose to power before Voldemort, plays a pivotal role in wizarding history. His relationship with Albus Dumbledore during their youth, their shared ambition for the Deathly Hallows, and the subsequent fallout is central to the series’ lore. Grindelwald’s ideology of wizarding supremacy has a lasting impact on the wizarding world, resulting in the devastating global conflict known as the Global Wizarding War.

Grindelwald’s complex character, ambitious ideas, and influence on key characters like Dumbledore make him a compelling figure in the series. Though he is primarily discussed in retrospect in the original series, his character is more deeply explored in the Fantastic Beasts films, further contributing to his status as a fan-favorite character.

Read more: Grindelwald vs Voldemort, Who Would Win?

21. Luna Lovegood

Luna Lovegood, introduced in “Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix”, is a Ravenclaw student known for her quirky behavior, dreamy disposition, and unwavering belief in the unseen and the unproven. Despite initially being portrayed as an outsider, Luna quickly becomes an integral part of Harry’s friend group due to her unwavering loyalty and unique perspectives.

Luna’s character brings a sense of whimsy and mystery to the series, reminding both the characters and the readers to keep their minds open to all possibilities. Her strength of character, demonstrated in her resilience against the bullying she faces and her participation in crucial battles, make Luna a beloved figure amongst fans.

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20. Lucius Malfoy

Lucius Malfoy, patriarch of the Malfoy family, is a significant antagonist throughout the Harry Potter series. His elite status, wealth, and disdain for those he considers beneath him, notably Muggles and Muggle-borns, make him a primary representative of the pure-blood supremacy ideology.

Despite his adherence to the dark side, his character exhibits a fascinating complexity through his occasional displays of fear and his evident concern for his family. His involvement in the main events of the series, particularly his role in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” makes him a memorable figure for fans. His fall from grace serves as a potent symbol of the collapse of the old, prejudiced structures in the wizarding world.

19. Newt Scamander

Introduced to the Harry Potter universe through the “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” textbook and later as the protagonist of the “Fantastic Beasts” film series, Newt Scamander is a Hufflepuff and renowned Magizoologist. Newt is known for his compassion for magical creatures and his pursuit to educate the wizarding world about them.

His character brings a unique perspective to the universe, emphasizing the importance of understanding and protecting magical creatures. His adventures reveal more about the global wizarding community and its history, enriching the lore of the series. Newt’s endearing quirks, his passion for magical creatures, and his bravery make him a beloved character amongst fans.

18. Gilderoy Lockhart

Gilderoy Lockhart, introduced in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” is a character whose comedic vanity and self-importance provide a light-hearted contrast to the often dark and dangerous wizarding world. As a bestselling author, Lockhart is initially admired by the wizarding community for his purported heroic feats, though it’s later revealed he gained his fame through memory charms and the accomplishments of others.

Despite his dishonesty and ineptitude, Lockhart’s character remains memorable to fans for his flamboyance and charm. His eventual downfall, resulting from a misfired memory charm, serves as a lesson about the perils of vanity and deception.

17. George Weasley

One-half of the Weasley twins, George Weasley is a character who exudes humor, creativity, and a rebellious spirit. Alongside his twin brother Fred, George provides comic relief throughout the series with their endless pranks and jests. However, George’s character is not limited to comedy. He displays bravery and loyalty by fighting in the Battle of Hogwarts and being a part of the Order of the Phoenix.

The loss of his twin brother, Fred, is a poignant moment in the series that deeply affects George and resonates with fans. Despite this tragedy, George continues their dream of running Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, displaying resilience and perseverance. His mixture of humor, bravery, and heart make George a beloved character amongst fans.

16. Molly Weasley

Molly Weasley, the matriarch of the Weasley family, is a character who embodies warmth, love, and courage. Known for her nurturing personality, Molly is like a mother to Harry, providing him with the familial love and care he never received from the Dursleys. She is fiercely protective of her family and friends, a trait famously showcased in her battle with Bellatrix Lestrange in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.”

Yet, Molly is more than just a mother figure. She is a competent witch who bravely fights in the Battle of Hogwarts and an active member of the Order of the Phoenix. Her character represents the power of love and family, key themes in the Harry Potter series, making her a favorite amongst fans.

15. Remus Lupin

Remus Lupin, introduced in “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” is a werewolf and a former member of the Marauders, friends with Harry’s parents. He quickly becomes a father figure to Harry during his brief stint as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. Lupin’s character is a study in resilience and kindness in the face of discrimination and hardship.

His struggles with his lycanthropy and the prejudice he faces from the wizarding community add a depth and complexity to his character. Despite his personal challenges, Lupin is consistently shown as brave, wise, and selfless, making significant contributions to the fight against Voldemort. His love story with Nymphadora Tonks and their tragic end is one of the most poignant aspects of the later books in the series. His character’s strength, compassion, and complexity make him a fan favorite.

14. Fred Weasley

Fred Weasley, the other half of the Weasley twins, is known for his infectious sense of humor, mischief, and strong family values. Along with his twin brother, George, Fred is a vital source of comic relief in the series. Their pranks, often carried out with the aid of products from their joke shop, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, are a delight to fans. However, the series also portrays Fred’s courage and loyalty, evident in his participation in Dumbledore’s Army and the Battle of Hogwarts.

Fred’s tragic death during the Battle of Hogwarts is one of the series’ most heartbreaking moments, and his loss leaves a profound impact on his family and fans alike. His vibrant spirit, sense of humor, and bravery make Fred Weasley an unforgettable character in the series.

13. Dolores Umbridge

Dolores Umbridge, introduced in “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” is a character who elicits strong negative reactions from fans due to her cruel and authoritarian behavior. As a high-ranking Ministry official, Umbridge uses her power to impose harsh rules at Hogwarts, often targeting Harry and his allies.

Her love for all things girlish and pink contrasts sharply with her malicious actions, making her character all the more unsettling. Despite being a non-Voldemort antagonist, Umbridge’s character is a significant representation of power misuse and political corruption in the series. Her eventual downfall and disgrace is a moment of catharsis for both the characters and the readers. The strong emotions she evokes make Umbridge an unforgettable character in the Harry Potter series.

12. Minerva McGonagall

Minerva McGonagall, one of the first characters introduced in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” is a stern yet fair figure in the Hogwarts faculty. As the Transfiguration Professor and the Head of Gryffindor House, she is known for her strict discipline and high standards. However, she is also shown to have a deep concern for her students and a strong sense of justice.

Her character becomes particularly important in the later books as she assumes leadership during the Battle of Hogwarts and becomes Headmistress. McGonagall’s unwavering courage, her sharp wit, and her occasional displays of dry humor make her a respected and beloved character amongst fans. Her character exemplifies the qualities of Gryffindor—bravery, leadership, and a strong moral compass.

11. Neville Longbottom

Introduced as a timid, forgetful boy in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” Neville Longbottom undergoes one of the most significant character transformations in the series. Despite early struggles with magic due to his lack of confidence and a mismatched wand, Neville eventually grows into a courageous and competent young wizard.

His development is particularly evident in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” where he leads the resistance against Death Eaters at Hogwarts and destroys the final Horcrux, showing his bravery and dedication to the cause. Neville’s character symbolizes the idea that true bravery can come from the most unexpected places. His journey from an unsure, clumsy boy to a brave, influential hero resonates deeply with fans, making him one of the most cherished characters in the series.

10. Dobby

Dobby, introduced in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” is a house-elf who was once enslaved to the Malfoy family. His character illustrates the plight of house-elves in the wizarding world, showcasing the series’ exploration of prejudice and inequality. Despite facing abuse and cruelty, Dobby remains kind-hearted and fiercely loyal to those who show him kindness, especially Harry Potter, whom he views as a hero.

After Harry helps free Dobby from the Malfoys, the elf’s unwavering loyalty and gratitude towards Harry is a recurring theme in the series. His determination to protect and assist Harry, often putting himself in danger, reveals his bravery. Dobby’s death while rescuing his friends from Malfoy Manor is a poignant moment in the series, symbolizing the tragic cost of the fight against Voldemort. Dobby’s bravery, loyalty, and love for freedom make him a beloved character amongst fans.

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9. Draco Malfoy

Introduced as Harry’s rival in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” Draco Malfoy is a character whose development and complexities add depth to the series. As a member of Slytherin and the son of a notorious Death Eater, Draco initially embodies the characteristics of a bully and an antagonist. However, as the series progresses, it becomes evident that he is a product of his upbringing.

The later books show a more vulnerable side of Draco as he struggles with the expectations placed on him by his family and Voldemort. His unwillingness to identify Harry to the Death Eaters in Malfoy Manor reveals his inner conflict and his inability to fully commit to Voldemort’s cause. Draco’s character arc, from a boastful bully to a conflicted and troubled individual, makes him a fascinating character, eliciting a range of emotions from fans.

8. Lord Voldemort

Born as Tom Marvolo Riddle, Lord Voldemort is the central antagonist in the Harry Potter series. His fear of death, obsession with pure-blood supremacy, and lust for power lead him to become one of the most feared dark wizards of all time. Voldemort’s character embodies the series’ exploration of immortality and the misuse of power.

Despite his immense magical ability, his inability to understand love or empathy leads to his downfall. His creation of Horcruxes, an act that involves splitting his soul through murder, further highlights his lack of regard for human life. While Voldemort’s actions are undeniably evil, his backstory reveals a tragic and lonely childhood, adding complexity to his character. As the embodiment of the series’ themes of death, fear, and power, Voldemort is a character fans love to hate.

Read more: The Transformation of Tom Riddle into Voldemort

7. Sirius Black

Sirius Black, introduced in “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” is Harry’s godfather and one of his most important allies. Wrongfully imprisoned in Azkaban for a crime he did not commit, Sirius’s character is a study in resilience and loyalty. Despite the hardships he faces, he remains dedicated to the cause of fighting Voldemort and protecting Harry.

Sirius becomes a father figure to Harry, offering him the family connection he desperately craves. Their relationship adds a layer of emotional depth to the series. However, Sirius’s impulsiveness and emotional trauma also make him a complex and flawed character.

His untimely death in the Battle of the Department of Mysteries is a significant turning point in the series and profoundly impacts Harry. Sirius’s bravery, loyalty, and complex personality make him one of the fan-favorite characters in the series.

6. Rubeus Hagrid

Rubeus Hagrid, introduced in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” is a lovable, loyal, and somewhat naive character who quickly becomes one of Harry’s first friends in the magical world. Despite his imposing size and strength, Hagrid has a gentle, nurturing nature, especially towards magical creatures, which often leads to comical and chaotic situations.

His unwavering loyalty to Albus Dumbledore and Hogwarts, and his protective attitude towards Harry and his friends, make him a key supporting character in the series. Hagrid is also responsible for some of the most emotional moments in the series, including when he carries Harry’s apparently lifeless body from the Forbidden Forest in “Deathly Hallows.” His kindness, passion for magical creatures, and big-hearted nature make Hagrid a favorite among fans.

Read more: How Did They Make Hagrid So Big?

5. Severus Snape

Severus Snape, introduced as the Potions Master in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” is one of the most complex and controversial characters in the series. Snape is initially portrayed as a villainous character, often making life difficult for Harry and his friends. However, as the series unfolds, so does Snape’s true character and motivations.

Despite his harsh exterior and questionable actions, Snape is revealed to have been working for Dumbledore all along, driven by his enduring love for Lily Potter, Harry’s mother. This revelation, along with his tragic death, drastically shifts the perception of Snape’s character.

Snape’s story is one of redemption and sacrifice, showing that people are capable of change. His love for Lily, symbolized by his doe Patronus, and his double life as a spy make him a deeply intriguing and multifaceted character, causing fans to have mixed, yet passionate, views about him.

Read more: Why Does Snape Hate Harry and James Potter?

4. Ron Weasley

Introduced as Harry’s best friend in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” Ron Weasley is an integral part of the trio that is at the heart of the series. As the youngest Weasley brother, Ron often grapples with feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, which makes his character arc relatable to many readers. Despite these struggles, Ron is loyal, often providing comic relief, and is always ready to stand by his friends in times of danger.

His relationship with Hermione Granger, which evolves from friendship to romantic interest, is a significant subplot of the series. Ron’s bravery during the Battle of Hogwarts, where he fights fiercely for his school and friends, is a testament to his character growth. His relatable struggles, loyalty, and bravery make Ron a beloved character among fans.

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3. Hermione Granger

Hermione Granger, introduced in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” is a pivotal character in the series and forms one-third of the central trio with Harry and Ron. A Muggle-born wizard, Hermione is known for her intelligence, resourcefulness, and strong moral compass. Her character represents the theme of discrimination in the wizarding world, as she faces prejudice due to her Muggle heritage.

Despite this, Hermione remains proud of her roots and uses her intellect and strong sense of justice to fight against inequality. Her character also highlights the power of knowledge and the importance of standing up for what is right.

Hermione’s contributions to Harry’s journey are invaluable, from solving the puzzle of the Philosopher’s Stone to her instrumental role in the quest for Horcruxes. Her character growth to a brave, compassionate witch willing to fight for a better world makes Hermione a favorite among fans.

Read more: How Is Hermione A Witch with Muggle Parents?

2. Albus Dumbledore

Albus Dumbledore is one of the most iconic characters in the Harry Potter series. First introduced in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” Dumbledore serves as the headmaster of Hogwarts and a mentor to Harry. Known for his wisdom, kindness, and sense of justice, Dumbledore plays a crucial role in the fight against Lord Voldemort. His character adds depth to the series’ exploration of themes such as power, sacrifice, and the complexities of good and evil.

Despite his benevolent and often eccentric persona, Dumbledore is a deeply flawed and complex character. His past mistakes and regrets, especially his association with Gellert Grindelwald, add a layer of complexity and humanity to his character. His belief in the power of love and his unwavering commitment to fighting against dark forces make him a deeply respected and beloved character amongst fans.

Read more: Does Dumbledore Come Back To Life?

1. Harry Potter

Introduced in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” Harry Potter is the protagonist of the series and the character who propels the entire narrative. Known as the “Boy Who Lived,” Harry is famous in the wizarding world for surviving an attack by Lord Voldemort when he was just a baby. His survival resulted in Voldemort’s temporary defeat, making Harry a living symbol of resistance against dark forces.

Despite his fame, Harry grows up unaware of his magical heritage, raised by his unkind relatives, the Dursleys, who kept him isolated from the wizarding world. His discovery of his identity as a wizard and his entry into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry marks the beginning of a journey filled with adventure, danger, and personal growth.

His friendship with Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley forms the core of the series, highlighting the power of friendship and loyalty. His complex relationship with mentors like Albus Dumbledore and Severus Snape reveals his ability to trust, forgive, and understand the complexities of human nature. His love for Sirius Black, his godfather, and his romantic relationship with Ginny Weasley show his capacity for deep emotional connections despite his difficult upbringing.

His character embodies the struggles of growing up, the importance of friendship, and the fight against evil, making him the most loved character in the series.

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