Newt Scamander has now been cast – and yes, we’re excited

It's official – Eddie Redmayne has been cast to play Newt Scamander in JK Rowling’s new Harry Potter prequel, Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them.

The 33 year-old Londoner won this year’s Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal as Stephen Hawking in The Theory Of Everything.

He will now turn his attentions to playing the ‘magizoologist’ who writes a textbook that will be studied by Harry and his friends in Hogwarts, years later.

Warner Brothers made the announcement saying that Redmayne has “emerged as one of today’s most extraordinarily talented and acclaimed actors”.

The studio said they are “thrilled to welcome him into JK Rowling’s Wizarding World, where we know he will deliver a remarkable performance”.

With Redmayne secured in the role, now we wonder who will play his love interest.

Last year, The Guardian reported that Harry Styles was possibly being considered to star in the film. These reports haven't been confirmed as of yet so we will just have to wait and see. 

According to The Wrap, there are two leading ladies in the Harry Potter spin-off. It is reported that director, David Yates, has been eyeing up Kate Upton, Saoirse Ronan, Dakota Fanning, and a few others for the two roles.

We’re sure Eddie will deliver in this role and, starring alongside any of these women in a J.K. Rowling script sounds like a recipe for success to us.