HBO's Harry Potter television series has cast Nicholas Hoult as Gilderoy Lockhart for its second season, which will adapt J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. The vain, self-aggrandising Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher was previously portrayed by Kenneth Branagh in the film franchise, and the casting adds another high-profile actor to HBO's growing ensemble. Hoult, known for roles in the DCU, X-Men and various other franchises, continues his run of major franchise appearances with this addition.

Filming for Season 2 begins this autumn, though no release date has been confirmed. Season 1, titled Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, comprises eight episodes and is due to premiere on HBO and HBO Max at Christmas 2026, with a cast including Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore. Hoult is currently filming the Superman sequel Man of Tomorrow and will next appear in How to Rob a Bank, out in cinemas on 13 November.