Young actor only credited with Jersey potatoes advert lands major role in Harry Potter series
A young actor whose only previous professional credit is for an advert about Jersey Royal potatoes has landed a major part in the new Harry Potter series.
Alastair Stout will play Ron Weasley with the trademark ginger hair - he was chosen from around 32,000 children who auditioned for the three lead roles in the HBO TV drama.
He will be joined by Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter and Arabella Stanton, who will play Hermione Granger.
Alastair's CV on his management's website currently only has one entry, listing his part as "Son at Dinner" in Albert Bartlett's 'Roll On Jersey Royal Season' commercial.
His talent agency says this breakout role in the Harry Potter revival will showcase "his dedication, impeccable humour and natural talent that will win the hearts of many".
The director of that advert, Martin Aamund, adds: "Good for him, I'm just so happy when I hear people that I've been working with make it to the big stage and take that huge leap up.
"They've been on set in the lights and know what it's all about, which is a good exercise because it's not that different. When he goes to Harry Potter, it's still just a set but of course, it requires much more of him as an actor. I'm happy he tried it with me first."
Alastair's casting is likely to keep him busy for many years as HBO expects the drama could run for a decade, with a series intended to focus on each of the seven books.
Executive producers Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod said: "We are delighted to announce we have found our Harry, Hermione, and Ron.
"The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen."
They will star alongside established actors such as John Lithgow as Professor Dumbledore and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid.
A official release date for the new series is yet to be announced.
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