Richard Attenborough is said to have lobbied for the role of Dumbledore.

According to IMDB, Marc Forster was offered the director's chair but chose to direct "Finding Neverland" instead.

Robson Green was reportedly considered for the role of Sirius Black.

Christopher Lee was reported to be in the running to take over the role of Dumbledore.

Ian McKellen turned down the role of Albus Dumbledore afer Richard Harris passed away. He was quoted as saying "I had enough trouble living up to one legend. Two would be too much to hope for." (referring to his role as Gandalf in Lord of the Rings)

Considered to replace close friend Sir Richard Harris as Professor Albus Dumbledore but politely refused.

Tilda Swinton was reportedly originally offered the role of Professor Trelawney but declined.

According to IMDB, Guillermo del Toro was considered to direct but he chose to do Hellboy instead.

Originally, Paul Whitehouse had a much more significant role as Sir Cadogan but it was almost completely cut from the film.