Harris death casts spells on role

SOME of the world's best actors are hoping to cast a spell on the producers of the Harry Potter films in a bid to replace the late Richard Harris in a role that won him the hearts of a whole new generation of fans.

Professor Albus Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts School in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and the upcoming movie The Chamber of Secrets, was the final role played by the Limerick actor, who died last Friday.

Harris's legendary acting ability was honoured at the British Independent Film awards in London this week.

Harris received the specially created Outstanding Contribution by an Actor award.

"We wanted publicly to recognise all that he has done," the BIFA said.

The third Harry Potter movie will begin filming next March and already several aspiring Dumbledores have expressed an interest in the part.

Among the favourites is Harris's old buddy and fellow Irish actor, Peter O'Toole.

The Dublin-born film star was shocked by his death, and friends have urged him to take the part in the popular Potter series.

"They were the same age and went to acting school together. But it is not our decision. There are several actors who would be perfect for it. At the moment all of us are still reeling from the news," said O'Toole's spokewoman said.

Others in the running include Lord Attenborough who admitted that he would love a role in the film. "In years to come people will think of ways of describing me and they'll probably say 'He wasn't in Harry Potter'. It's not that I was asked and turned it down. I just wasn't asked," he said.

Christopher Lee who successfully played Saruman in Lord of the Rings is also tipped as Harris's likely successorFellow Lord of the Rings star Ian McKellen was offered the role three years ago but was forced to turn it down because of commitments. He may take on the role if askedagain.

Other likely lads include Derek Jacobi and Tom Baker. Warner Brothers still hasn't drawn up a short list of potential replacements.

"The loss of Richard Harris came as a shock to all of us and it's inconceivable to think of replacing him at this very serious time," a company spokesman said.