Johnny Flynn, who is set to portray Lucius Malfoy in HBO's upcoming adaptation of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, has stated that all private schools should be "burnt to the ground." The South African-born British actor, 43, shared that his own childhood experience at a boarding school, beginning at age seven, was "quite traumatic" and led to the development of nervous tics. He believes that such institutions should not exist.

Flynn has previously discussed his unhappy time at boarding school, later realizing through therapy the pain associated with what he described as "boarding school syndrome." His comments came while discussing his role in the crime drama MobLand, which features Tom Hardy and is executive produced by Guy Ritchie. Flynn noted that he, Hardy, and Ritchie were all privately educated, highlighting what he called an important conversation about "the posh boys taking over things."

He expressed concern that if only individuals from similar backgrounds are telling stories, it limits perspectives. Flynn mentioned that figures like Eddie Redmayne and Benedict Cumberbatch, who also attended private schools, would agree that they shouldn't be the only ones represented.

Flynn's own boarding school experiences began at age eight when he was sent to Pilgrims, a cathedral school in Winchester, on a music scholarship. He later attended the progressive Bedales School for his continued musical education before pursuing acting.

Despite his strong views on private education, Flynn is preparing to embody Lucius Malfoy, a wealthy and prejudiced character and father of Draco Malfoy, in the new Harry Potter series. He is taking over the role from Jason Isaacs. The series is scheduled to premiere on Christmas Day and will adapt the books more closely than the previous film series. The first season will cover "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone."

Flynn stated that he approaches characters with empathy, contrasting his method with Jason Isaacs' portrayal of Lucius Malfoy in the original films. Flynn explained that he needs to empathize with characters to play them, drawing parallels between his own experiences of being bullied and the psychology of those who become bullies. He views Lucius Malfoy as someone who was likely abused himself and thus learned no other way to behave, reflecting a nuanced view of good and evil.

Flynn is known for roles in "Emma," "Lovesick," "Ripley," and "One Life," as well as his music career. The new Harry Potter series has also announced other cast members, including John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, and Nick Frost as Hagrid.