MEN with huge beards are getting a magical chance to star in the new Harry Potter TV series.
The creators of the spin-off shows are seeking blokes with facial hair that stretches “up to or beyond their waist”, with the lucky few expected to play wizards.
They promise anyone fitting the bill will enjoy “good rates of pay” in return for being in the series, which starts filming this summer in London.
A TV insider said: “The Harry Potter TV show is literally the most sought-after project for actors, so this is an incredible opportunity.
“All the potential stars have to do is look like the members of ZZ Top, but there actually aren’t that many people around who fit the bill.
“That’s why the producers have now taken to advertising for applicants to come forward.”
The series, which will be made at Warner Bros Studios in Leavesden, near Watford, already boasts stars in its line-up.
John Lithgow will replace the late Michael Gambon as Professor Dumbledore, Janet McTeer is Professor McGonagall and Paapa Essiedu is Snape.
A new Harry has not yet been found, but a staggering 32,000 youngsters have auditioned for the role — meaning casting chiefs have to view between 500 and 1,000 audition tapes a day.
That does not include other main child roles Ron and Hermione.
The show will be made by US telly giant HBO and is expected to release in 2026, but it is not certain which UK network will air it.
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