Ralph Fiennes shares hilarious fashion advice for the next Voldemort: ‘Practice your robe walk’

As the wizarding world prepares for a new era with HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV series, Ralph Fiennes — the man who embodied Lord Voldemort for over half a decade — is ready to pass the wand. But before he does, he has some very specific, and very funny, fashion advice for the actor who dares to step into the Dark Lord’s flowing robes.

Embrace the villain, but mind the hem

Ralph Fiennes, a three-time Oscar nominee, portrayed the iconic dark wizard Voldemort across five Harry Potter films between 2005’s Goblet of Fire and the franchise’s 2011 finale, Deathly Hallows – Part 2. Known for his chilling, snake-like presence and unflinching intensity, Fiennes’ Voldemort became one of the most memorable villains in modern film.

Now, as HBO embarks on a new small-screen adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s beloved book series, Fiennes has some tongue-in-cheek yet practical wisdom to share with whoever takes up the mantle of He Who Must Not Be Named.

“Make sure you can handle the long, flowing robes, and don’t trip over them,” Fiennes quipped in a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight. “Practice your long, flowing robe walk.” It’s a rare glimpse behind the scenes — and a reminder that even the most fearsome villains must master the art of dramatic entrances.

The tights don’t lie: behind the scenes of Voldemort’s wardrobe

Fiennes didn’t stop at robe advice. Delving deeper into his time in costume, he shared a hilarious anecdote about one particularly awkward element of Voldemort’s wardrobe: the tights.

“In the beginning, they were one piece and had a gusset, which kept getting lower and lower throughout the shooting day,” he recalled. The discomfort became such an issue that he eventually made a wardrobe request: “individual tights like a garter belt.” And Fiennes didn’t miss the opportunity for some on-set mischief. “I enjoyed teasing the stunt guys by lifting up my robes and showing them my garter belt,” he joked, painting a delightfully absurd picture of the usually ominous Lord Voldemort flashing his custom hosiery between takes.

While fans may remember the terrifying presence Voldemort brought to the screen, it’s clear the actor behind the dark magic wasn’t above a little levity. In fact, his stories remind us that even the darkest wizard of all time had wardrobe malfunctions.

A legacy of darkness and drama

Ralph Fiennes’ portrayal of Voldemort set the bar for what it means to be a complex, cinematic villain. With his intense gaze, haunting voice, and physical commitment to the role — including hours of prosthetics and costume — he shaped the Dark Lord into a figure that was both mythical and unsettlingly real.

He reprised the role through multiple films, culminating in the final duel against Harry Potter in Deathly Hallows – Part 2. He later returned in 2022 for Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts, joining former castmates like Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson in a reunion special that brought back waves of nostalgia for fans around the world.

Though Fiennes has previously expressed interest in returning to the role if asked, he’s also offered his blessing to a potential successor. Most recently, he called Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy a “wonderful suggestion” for the part — though HBO has not yet confirmed who will take on the challenge of becoming the next Voldemort.

A new cast steps into Hogwarts

While the casting of the Dark Lord remains a mystery, HBO has already unveiled the young actors set to bring the legendary trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione to life. Dominic McLaughlin will don the round glasses as Harry, with Alastair Stout playing Ron and Arabella Stanton stepping into the shoes of the quick-witted Hermione.

The new series also boasts an impressive supporting cast. Stage and screen veteran John Lithgow will take on the role of Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer will portray Professor McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu has been cast as Severus Snape, and Hot Fuzz alum Nick Frost will bring warmth and humor to the beloved role of Hagrid. These casting choices suggest a fresh, bold reimagining of the wizarding world. And as anticipation builds