Spielberg says he suggested three original Harry Potter castings

Steven Spielberg said in a recent interview that he helped cast three key characters in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone after being briefly attached to direct the film early in its development. He recalled developing the second draft with writer Steve Kloves and proposing Maggie Smith, Richard Harris and Robbie Coltrane.

Spielberg noted he had just worked with Smith on Hook and that Harris was a longtime friend, and added that he suggested Coltrane as well. Spielberg said he ultimately stepped away for personal reasons, emphasizing there was "no anger, no big controversy," and that his protege Chris Columbus then took over and made the first two films.

His early input helped shape an iconic original cast. The franchise has continued, though J. K. Rowling's anti-transgender views have loomed over Warner Bros.' latest movie, gaming and TV efforts.

spielberg, harry potter, sorcerer's stone, steve kloves, maggie smith, richard harris, robbie coltrane, chris columbus, jk rowling, warner bros