Harry Potter Star Ralph Fiennes Says Tilda Swinton Would Be 'Fantastic' as Lord Voldemort, and Admits He Was Asked to Return, Though Now Believes 'That Ship Has Sailed'

Harry Potter movie star Ralph Fiennes has given his blessing for Doctor Strange's Tilda Swinton to take over as Lord Voldemort. HBO's upcoming Harry Potter TV series is yet to cast the young wizard's arch nemesis — though Voldemort only makes a cameo appearance in the saga's first story. Still, as the show's December launch date gets closer, time is running out for Fiennes' shoes to be filled, so a face can be slapped onto the back of Professor Quirrell's head. Speaking on tonight's episode of The Claudia Winkleman Show (via BBC News), Fiennes revealed that he was once asked if he would reprise his role again, presumably for the upcoming series — albeit "some years ago." In response, the actor said he'd "love to," but since then has not heard more. Now, he believes "that ship has sailed." Fiennes was then asked for his opinion on who might take the role of Voldemort next, and specifically his thoughts on the casting of Swinton, who has long been linked to the part in fan circles. In response, Fiennes said that the Marvel and Narnia star would be "fantastic." While Swinton has long been considered a good fit for Voldemort, it would be interesting to see how the series adapted to her