Top 25 Harry Potter Characters: Books and Movies

If you're a *Harry Potter* enthusiast, you've probably noticed that the series remains as captivating today as it was when it first debuted. To celebrate one of the longest-running movie franchises, we've thoroughly examined the *Harry Potter* film and book series to curate a list of the 25 best characters.

Before we unveil our selections, here's a quick overview of our selection process: These characters are ranked based on overall fan reactions, their impact on the franchise (both books and films considered equally), their relevance to pivotal moments in the series, and their significance within the *Potter* mythos. If your favorites didn't make the list, don't hesitate to share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Now, gather in the Great Hall as we celebrate the 25 best *Harry Potter* characters from both the movies and books.

Note: This list excludes characters from *Hogwarts Legacy* and will remain unaffected by the upcoming *Harry Potter* series.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

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25. Dobby

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"Such a beautiful place... to be with friends." Those heartfelt words spoken by Dobby in *Deathly Hallows Part 1* are among his final moments. When we first met Dobby, he was undeniably quirky—annoying, even—with his self-harming tendencies and knack for complicating Harry's life. However, Dobby's intentions were always noble, and his unwavering dedication to helping Harry, despite the risks, was commendable.

In the books, Dobby's presence is more prominent, showcasing his kindness and loyalty, especially toward Harry, to whom he owed his freedom. Even those familiar with Dobby solely from the *Chamber of Secrets* film were deeply moved by his selfless sacrifice in *Deathly Hallows Part 1*, where he saved Harry and his friends from peril and ultimately fell victim to Bellatrix Lestrange. Dobby's final moments, filled with no regrets, remain one of the most poignant moments in the series.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

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Though overshadowed by Voldemort in later years, Grindelwald was once the most feared villain in the wizarding world. His fleeting appearance in the main series belies his immense power, but his true essence emerges in the *Fantastic Beasts* prequel films. Set in the early 20th century, these movies explore Grindelwald's reign of terror and his complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore, his close friend and rival.

Grindelwald's ability to blend into society while orchestrating chaos is remarkable, and his eventual revelation in the *Fantastic Beasts* series adds depth to his character. Unfortunately, the series was cut short after three of its planned five films, leaving the full story of Grindelwald's rise and fall unexplored.

23. Ginny Weasley

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Ginny Weasley's transformation from a lovesick girl in *Chamber of Secrets* to a confident leader in *Order of the Phoenix* is inspiring. Her romance with Harry evolved naturally, feeling both unexpected and inevitable. As part of the Weasley family, Ginny found a sense of belonging and love that resonated deeply with fans.

While her leadership in the rebellion against Voldemort wasn't fully captured in the films, Ginny's strength, determination, and allure shine brightly in the books. She proves herself as a formidable force in Dumbledore's Army, embodying the ideal "girl who got her guy"—and we couldn't have it any other way.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

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Gilderoy Lockhart is the epitome of charm, a self-proclaimed wizard whose illustrious career is built on fabricated tales of heroism. Through memory charms and sheer charisma, he convinced the wizarding world of his greatness without ever lifting a wand in battle.

Hired as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts, Lockhart initially reveled in the attention but quickly exposed his incompetence. His lies unraveled when Harry and his friends uncovered his true nature, leading to his embarrassing downfall.

21. Albus Severus Potter

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Living in the shadow of fame as the son of Harry Potter is no easy feat, especially when your middle name honors two of the most revered figures in wizarding history. Albus Severus struggles with balancing fame and anonymity, good and evil, and the house affiliations of Gryffindor and Slytherin.

While the films have only hinted at Albus Severus's journey, the stage play *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child* delves deeper into his experiences at Hogwarts. Fans eagerly await his arrival on the big screen.

20. Molly Weasley

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Molly Weasley embodies the perfect mother—loving, nurturing, and magical. Her relationship with Harry, an orphan neglected by his relatives, is particularly heartwarming. From the moment they met, Molly treated Harry as her own son, showering him with love, support, and even Christmas presents.

Beyond her maternal warmth, Molly displays remarkable courage as a member of the Order of the Phoenix. Her protective instincts shine brightest when her children are threatened, leaving a lasting impression on even her fiercest adversaries.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

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Grizzled and battle-hardened, Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody is one of the most respected Aurors in wizarding history. His scarred face and prosthetic eye reflect the toll of his years in combat. Despite his apparent paranoia and eccentricities, Moody's dedication to justice remained unwavering.

Recruited by Dumbledore to teach Defense Against the Dark Arts, Moody was soon targeted by Barty Crouch Jr., who impersonated him using Polyjuice Potion. The real Moody continued to fight for Harry and the Order of the Phoenix until his tragic death in *Deathly Hallows Part 1*.

18. Minerva McGonagall

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As the head of Gryffindor House and Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts, Professor McGonagall is both strict and compassionate. While she disciplines unruly students and deducts house points when necessary, she also serves as a supportive mentor.

A lifelong educator, McGonagall worked closely with Dumbledore during the First Wizarding War. After the war, she played a key role in Harry's upbringing, offering guidance and protection throughout his years at Hogwarts.

17. Delores Umbridge

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Umbridge is the embodiment of everything we despise—a villain so vile she deserves a spot on this list. Unlike Voldemort, whose menace was largely indirect, Umbridge was a constant presence in Harry's life during her tenure as Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher.

Her sadistic methods of punishment and her insufferable personality made her a loathsome figure. Imelda Staunton's portrayal in the films captures her essence perfectly, though she is even more detestable in the