A YOUNG actor whose first screen appearance was in a Jersey Royal potato advert has beaten thousands of children to land a main role in HBO’s forthcoming Harry Potter television series.
Alastair Stout, described by his agent as having “red/titian” hair and a “northern” accent, previously featured briefly as ‘son at dinner’ in an Albert Bartlett advert.
He will now take on one of the most recognisable roles in children’s fiction as Ron Weasley, following in the footsteps of Rupert Grint in the new decade-long adaptation of JK Rowling’s bestselling series.
Around 32,000 children auditioned for the lead roles in September. HBO said its team reviewed up to 1,000 tapes per day.
Young Alastair will be joined by Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter and Arabella Stanton as Hermione.
