Warner Bros. has confirmed that Eddie Redmayne will star in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Redmayne (pictured, via) has become well-known for his roles in other literary adaptations such as The Theory of Everything and Les Misérables.
For this project, the Academy Award-winning actor will portray “the Wizarding World’s preeminent magizoologist” Newt Scamander. Fans of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter book series will recognize that character as the author of a textbook studied by students at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Director David Yates gave this statement in the press release: “Eddie is a fearless actor, brimming with invention, wit and humanity. I couldn’t be more excited about the prospect of working with him as we start this new adventure in J.K. Rowling’s wonderful world, and I know she feels the same way.” (via The Hollywood Reporter)