Who Should Replace Johnny Depp as Grindelwald in the Fantastic Beasts Trilogy?

Replacing Johnny Depp as Grindelwald in the Harry Potter spinoff series Fantastic Beasts is a significant decision given the character's complexity and the franchise's established tone. The role demands an actor who can portray both charm and menace, someone who can bring depth to a character that has become iconic and divisive. Here are some strong candidates:

Mads Mikkelsen

When one thinks of the current portrayal of Grindelwald, Mads Mikkelsen immediately comes to mind. After taking over the role, Mikkelsen brought a nuanced and multifaceted performance that resonated with audiences. His versatility and ability to convey both the charm and menace of the character made him a fitting choice. While Mikkelsen is already in the role, his performance is worthy of praise and recognition.

Jude Law

Jude Law, known for his chilling portrayal of You-Know-Who in the Harry Potter films, could add another layer of complexity to the role if he were to step up. His experience in the wizarding world and strong acting chops could provide an interesting dynamic, especially if his character were to take on more confrontational roles against Grindelwald. Law's ability to shift between vulnerability and intensity could complement the character well.

Michael Fassbender

Michael Fassbender, with his intense and magnetic presence, could bring a different but compelling interpretation of Grindelwald. His experience in films like Black Panther and 12 Years a Slave demonstrates his ability to portray characters with moral ambiguity and complexity. Fassbender's ability to embody these traits would make him a strong contender for a darker, more charismatic version of Grindelwald.

Tom Hiddleston

Tom Hiddleston, with his experience as Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has shown his ability to play charismatic and morally ambiguous characters. Hiddleston's performance as a dashing antihero would resonate well with fans and critics alike. His deep understanding of acting and character development makes him an excellent choice for the role, especially if the filmmakers are looking for a charismatic and nuanced portrayal of Grindelwald.

Dan Stevens

Dan Stevens, who has already demonstrated his ability to embody complex roles in films like Legion and The Guest, could bring a fresh approach to the character. His embodiment of Grindelwald could be darker and more charismatic, adding a new dimension to the role. Stevens' experience in portraying deeply layered and troubled characters would make him a strong candidate for the role.

Ultimately, the choice would depend on the vision of the filmmakers. Each of these actors brings unique strengths to the role, and the most suitable choice would be the one that aligns with the director's vision for the character and the overall tone of the franchise. The decision would impact fan perception and the success of future installments in the Fantastic Beasts series.