Imagine the moment the flying Ford Anglia soars over the English countryside, crashing spectacularly into the Whomping Willow at Hogwarts. Or Kenneth Branagh’s Gilderoy Lockhart strutting into the Great Hall, flashing that dazzling smile while the entire school hangs on his every exaggerated word. These scenes from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002) still spark instant nostalgia for millions of fans worldwide. The film, the second installment in the beloved franchise, introduced darker magic, unforgettable new characters, and performances that solidified the series as a cultural phenomenon.
If you’re searching for the Harry Potter Chamber cast, you’re likely rewatching the movie, reminiscing about your favorite moments, or wondering how the actors who brought J.K. Rowling’s second book to life have evolved over the years. This comprehensive guide delivers exactly that: a full breakdown of the cast from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, spotlighting their iconic roles, standout scenes, and where many of them stand in 2026. Whether you’re a lifelong Potterhead or discovering the wizarding world anew, this article goes beyond basic lists to offer deeper insights, fun production trivia, book-to-film comparisons, and fresh context—including nods to the recent full-cast Audible adaptation released in late 2025.
As someone who has followed the Harry Potter series since the books first hit shelves and analyzed every film adaptation in detail, I’ve compiled this as the ultimate resource. It draws from reliable sources like official cast credits, interviews, and career updates to provide trustworthy, in-depth coverage that outshines standard IMDb pages or quick fan recaps.
Overview of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
Directed by Chris Columbus, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets hit theaters in November 2002 and grossed over $879 million worldwide. It built on the success of Philosopher’s Stone (known as Sorcerer’s Stone in the U.S.) by introducing a more ominous tone: petrified students, sinister whispers, and the looming threat of an ancient evil hidden within Hogwarts.
The film’s critical reception praised its faithful adaptation, visual effects (especially the basilisk and Dobby’s CGI), and the ensemble cast. Rotten Tomatoes currently sits at around 82% approval, with audiences loving the humor amid the growing darkness. The child actors—now young adults during filming—showed remarkable growth, while British veterans added gravitas and comedy.
This cast was crucial: it balanced whimsy (Lockhart’s vanity) with menace (Lucius Malfoy’s cold arrogance) and heart (Hagrid’s loyalty, Dobby’s tragic devotion). Their performances turned Rowling’s words into cinematic magic that still resonates today.
The Golden Trio – Core Cast & Their Iconic Performances
The heart of the franchise remained the trio, whose chemistry deepened in this installment.
Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter
At age 13 during filming, Radcliffe portrayed a more confident yet troubled Harry—grappling with fame, Parseltongue outbursts, and the Chamber’s secrets. Iconic moments include his confrontation with Tom Riddle in the Chamber and the basilisk battle. His wide-eyed wonder from the first film evolved into subtle emotional layers.
In 2026, Radcliffe (now 36) continues a versatile career. Recent highlights include acclaimed stage work, voice roles, and films like Weird: The Al Yankovic Story (2022), where his transformative performance earned praise. He’s also an outspoken advocate for disability rights and has distanced himself somewhat from the Potter spotlight while appreciating its legacy.
Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley
Grint’s comic timing shone as the loyal, often terrified Ron—whether crashing the car, fearing spiders in the Forbidden Forest, or awkwardly navigating jealousy. His delivery of lines like “Follow the spiders? Why spiders? Why couldn’t it be follow the butterflies?” became meme gold.
Today, Grint (also 36 in 2026) balances family life with acting. He’s starred in series like Servant and appeared in films, often choosing quirky roles that echo Ron’s humor. He remains close to his co-stars and occasionally reflects fondly on the franchise in interviews.
Emma Watson as Hermione Granger
Watson’s Hermione was the brilliant, rule-breaking force—researching mandrakes, brewing Polyjuice Potion, and standing up to prejudice. Her performance added depth to the character’s intelligence and courage.
In 2026, Watson (36) is a global advocate for gender equality, sustainability, and education. She’s taken selective acting roles (including Little Women and The Perks of Being a Wallflower) while focusing on producing and activism. Her thoughtful evolution from child star to influential figure inspires many fans.
Standout Supporting Cast – Scene-Stealers & Fan Favorites
Kenneth Branagh as Gilderoy Lockhart
Branagh’s over-the-top portrayal of the vain, fraudulent celebrity wizard remains one of the film’s highlights. His dramatic readings, memory charm failures, and signature poses turned Lockhart into a comedic masterpiece that amplified the book’s satire.
Branagh, a Shakespearean legend and Oscar-nominated director, continued thriving post-Potter with films like Cinderella (2015, which he directed) and Murder on the Orient Express. In recent years, he’s appeared in major blockbusters and theater, maintaining his reputation as one of Britain’s finest.
Jason Isaacs as Lucius Malfoy 
Isaacs brought chilling elegance to Draco’s aristocratic father—sneering at the Weasleys, planting the diary, and wielding his snake-headed cane with menace. His performance perfectly captured pure-blood prejudice.
Isaacs (now in his 60s) has enjoyed a prolific career in TV (The OA, Star Trek: Discovery) and film, often playing complex villains. He remains active and occasionally shares behind-the-scenes Potter memories.
Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid
Coltrane’s warm, gruff Hagrid provided emotional anchors—defending Harry, introducing magical creatures, and delivering heartfelt lines like “Yer a wizard, Harry” echoes. His size (enhanced by prosthetics) and Scottish accent made the half-giant instantly lovable.
Coltrane passed away in 2022, but his legacy endures. Tributes continue to highlight his kindness on set and profound impact on the series.
Toby Jones as Dobby (Voice)
Jones’ high-pitched, frantic voice brought heartbreaking loyalty and humor to the house-elf. Dobby’s “Dobby is free!” scene after the sock trick remains one of the most emotional in the franchise.
Jones has since voiced characters in The Hunger Games, Star Wars, and more, earning acclaim for his versatility in live-action and animation.
Other Key Hogwarts Faculty & Characters
- Maggie Smith as Minerva McGonagall: Stern yet protective; her disapproval of Lockhart was pitch-perfect. Dame Smith continued legendary work until her later years.
- Alan Rickman as Severus Snape: His simmering disdain and complex delivery hinted at deeper layers. Rickman passed in 2016; his performance is still studied for nuance.
- Richard Harris as Albus Dumbledore: Gentle wisdom in his final role before his 2002 passing.
- Warwick Davis as Filius Flitwick: Charming and energetic professor.
These veterans elevated the young cast, creating a believable magical world.
The Weasley Family & Other Hogwarts Students
The Weasleys brought warmth, humor, and working-class charm to contrast the Malfoy elitism, while the student ensemble added relatability and growing stakes.
Julie Walters as Molly Weasley
Walters infused Molly with fierce maternal love—scolding the twins, worrying over her children, and delivering the now-iconic Howler to Ron. Her performance grounded the magical world in everyday family dynamics.
Walters (in her mid-70s in 2026) remains one of Britain’s most respected actresses, with recent credits in television dramas and films. She has spoken fondly of the Potter experience in retrospectives.
Mark Williams as Arthur Weasley
Williams portrayed the endlessly curious, Muggle-obsessed father with gentle humor and kindness. His fascination with electricity and plugs became a recurring delight.
Williams continues acting regularly, appearing in British series and films, and is known for his warm personality off-screen.
James and Oliver Phelps as Fred and George Weasley
The identical twins brought chaotic energy, pranks, and unbreakable brotherhood. Their banter, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes foreshadowing, and loyalty to Harry made them instant fan favorites.
In 2026, the Phelps twins (now 40) have pursued separate paths—James in acting and producing, Oliver in entrepreneurship and occasional screen roles. They frequently reunite for fan events and have remained close to the Potter community.
Bonnie Wright as Ginny Weasley
This was Ginny’s breakout year in the films. Wright captured the shy, star-struck girl who idolizes Harry while slowly revealing her strength and wit.
Wright (now 35) has built a career in indie films, directing short projects, and modeling. She occasionally reflects on her Potter days and advocates for environmental causes.
Tom Felton as Draco Malfoy
Felton’s sneering, privileged Draco perfectly embodied schoolyard antagonism. His taunts, rivalry with Harry, and subtle hints of insecurity made the character more layered than a simple bully.
Felton (38 in 2026) has enjoyed a diverse post-Potter career—music, theater, reality TV, and roles in films and series. He remains active on social media, often engaging humorously with fans about his Draco days.
Supporting Students
- Matthew Lewis as Neville Longbottom — Already showing the seeds of courage that would bloom later.
- Devon Murray as Seamus Finnigan — Explosive charm and Irish accent added flavor.
- Afshan Azad as Padma Patil, Katie Leung as Cho Chang, Alfred Enoch as Dean Thomas, and others rounded out the diverse Gryffindor and Ravenclaw houses.
These young actors grew up on screen alongside the leads, creating authentic teenage dynamics.
Villains & Magical Creatures
Christian Coulson as Tom Riddle
Coulson’s handsome, charming, yet chilling young Voldemort (via the diary memory) delivered quiet menace. His calm manipulation in the Chamber remains one of the film’s most unsettling sequences.
Coulson has since appeared in theater and smaller film/TV roles, maintaining a lower public profile.
Shirley Henderson as Moaning Myrtle
Henderson’s high-pitched, melodramatic ghost captured Myrtle’s tragic, attention-seeking personality perfectly. Her bathroom scenes blended humor and pathos.
Henderson continues a steady career in British television and film.
Julian Glover as Aragog (Voice)
The giant spider’s deep, menacing voice added terror to the Forbidden Forest sequence.
Glover, a veteran actor, has continued working into his late 80s.
Full Chamber of Secrets Cast List (Comprehensive Breakdown)
Here is a clear, organized overview of the principal and notable cast members:
Main/Returning Cast
- Daniel Radcliffe – Harry Potter
- Rupert Grint – Ron Weasley
- Emma Watson – Hermione Granger
- Robbie Coltrane – Rubeus Hagrid
- Maggie Smith – Professor Minerva McGonagall
- Alan Rickman – Professor Severus Snape
- Richard Harris – Professor Albus Dumbledore
- Warwick Davis – Professor Filius Flitwick
New Major Additions
- Kenneth Branagh – Gilderoy Lockhart
- Jason Isaacs – Lucius Malfoy
- Tom Felton – Draco Malfoy
- Toby Jones – Dobby (voice)
- Christian Coulson – Tom Marvolo Riddle
- Julie Walters – Molly Weasley
- Mark Williams – Arthur Weasley
- Bonnie Wright – Ginny Weasley
- James Phelps – Fred Weasley
- Oliver Phelps – George Weasley
Supporting & Notable Roles
- Shirley Henderson – Moaning Myrtle
- Julian Glover – Aragog (voice)
- John Cleese – Nearly Headless Nick (cameo)
- Sean Biggerstaff – Oliver Wood
- Gemma Jones – Madam Poppy Pomfrey
- Sally Mortemore – Madam Pince
- Richard Griffiths – Vernon Dursley
- Fiona Shaw – Petunia Dursley
- Harry Melling – Dudley Dursley
- Matthew Lewis – Neville Longbottom
- Devon Murray – Seamus Finnigan
- Jamie Waylett – Vincent Crabbe
- Josh Herdman – Gregory Goyle
This list covers nearly every speaking or prominently featured role. Minor cameos (e.g., students in the background) are too numerous to detail but contributed to the lived-in Hogwarts atmosphere.
Then and Now – Where the Harry Potter Chamber Cast Are in 2026
More than two decades later, the cast’s journeys reflect remarkable growth:
- The Golden Trio (Radcliffe, Grint, Watson) remain close friends and have each carved distinct paths—Radcliffe in bold, transformative roles; Grint in family-oriented projects; Watson in advocacy and selective acting.
- Kenneth Branagh directs major films and stars in prestige projects.
- Jason Isaacs plays nuanced villains across genres.
- Tom Felton embraces his Draco legacy with humor while exploring new creative outlets.
- The Weasley siblings (Phelps twins, Bonnie Wright) stay connected to fandom through conventions and personal projects.
The 2025 Audible full-cast audio drama (featuring new voices like Frankie Treadaway as Harry and Kit Harington as Lockhart) has sparked renewed interest, giving fans a fresh way to experience the story while honoring the original film performances.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights & Casting Stories
Chris Columbus sought actors who could grow with the series. The trio’s auditions were famously rigorous—thousands tried out, but their natural chemistry won out.
Branagh was hand-picked for Lockhart after Columbus saw his theatrical flair. He improvised many physical gags, including the dramatic hair flips.
Child labor laws limited filming hours, so the young cast often studied on set. Richard Harris, already ill, gave a poignant final performance as Dumbledore.
Dobby’s CGI was groundbreaking for 2002, with Toby Jones recording lines separately but matching the puppet’s expressions perfectly.
Book vs. Film – How the Cast Brought Characters to Life
The film amplified Lockhart’s comedy (Branagh’s physicality went beyond the page) and condensed subplots (e.g., less Dursley time). Yet faithful moments—like Hermione’s cat transformation, Ron’s spider terror, and Dobby’s freedom—captured the book’s spirit. The cast’s chemistry made omissions feel seamless rather than jarring.
Why the Chamber of Secrets Cast Remains Timeless
The performances created memes (“Dobby is free!”), emotional touchstones (Hagrid’s loyalty), and quotable lines that still trend online. The film’s darker tone balanced by humor set the template for the series’ evolution. In an era of reboots and audio adaptations, this cast’s work endures as the definitive live-action version for most fans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who played Dobby in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets? Toby Jones provided the voice, with the character brought to life through pioneering CGI and animatronics.
Where is the Chamber of Secrets cast now in 2026? Many remain active in film, TV, theater, and advocacy. The Golden Trio are in their mid-30s and continue diverse careers; veterans like Kenneth Branagh and Jason Isaacs stay prominent.
What’s the difference between the film cast and the recent Audible version? The 2025 Audible adaptation features an entirely new voice cast (Frankie Treadaway as Harry, Kit Harington as Lockhart, etc.), offering a fresh interpretation while the 2002 film remains the visual classic.
Who gave the best performance in Chamber of Secrets? Subjective, but Kenneth Branagh’s Lockhart, Toby Jones’ Dobby, and the trio’s chemistry frequently top fan polls.
Did any actors return for later Harry Potter films? Nearly the entire cast reprised their roles through the series, except Richard Harris (replaced by Michael Gambon).
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets succeeded because its cast turned a beloved book into something even more magical on screen. From the trio’s growing confidence to Branagh’s hilarious vanity, Dobby’s heartbreaking loyalty, and the Weasleys’ warmth, every performance added layers that fans still cherish.
Whether you’re revisiting the film, exploring the new audio drama, or simply feeling nostalgic, this cast created something timeless. Who’s your favorite from the Chamber of Secrets era? Drop a comment below—share your memories, favorite scenes, or which actor surprised you most. And if you enjoyed this deep dive, check out our other Harry Potter cast guides and character analyses right here on the blog.
