When it comes to Hogwarts houses, Gryffindor is the headline act—the one everyone knows, even if they’re not deep into the wizarding world. Whether you’re a lifelong Potter fanatic or a casual reader, chances are you’ve imagined yourself under that Sorting Hat and heard it shout “Gryffindor!” at least once.
But who stands out in the red-and-gold legends? Here’s my countdown—starting at number ten—of the most daring, talented Gryffindor witches and wizards to make an impact on the Harry Potter saga.
10. Ron Weasley
Ron will joke and fumble his way through a crisis now and then, but don’t try it with him. His devotion is deep-seated, his courage burns brightest in the fire of need, and he’s battled battles that would make seasoned wizards quake. And he became an Auror—a no-small-task accomplishment.
9. Sirius Black
Sirius never did play by the rules—or his family’s sinister path. He opted for honor over heritage, became Harry’s fiercely loyal godfather, and was a member of the Order of the Phoenix. Between surviving Azkaban, defying Death Eaters, and staying cool under fire, Sirius lived the Gryffindor way in his defiant style.
8. Rubeus Hagrid
Hagrid may not have completed school, but his bravery and devotion surpass the majority. The soft-spoken half-giant cared for Harry from the very beginning, battled beasts most wouldn’t even speak, and fought valiantly in the bleakest moments—all with a taped-up wand tucked in a pink parasol.
7. Neville Longbottom
Neville’s tale is one of wizarding history’s greatest glow-ups. From timid, gangly student to confident leader of the Hogwarts resistance, he demonstrated perseverance and resolve in spades. And when push came to shove, he killed Nagini—inflicting a devastating setback on Voldemort’s plans.
6. Ginny Weasley
Don’t confuse Ginny with a background character. She showed herself a capable duelist and brave combatant by mastering her signature Bat-Bogey Hex as well as by leading Dumbledore’s Army. Even as the youngest in a family of heroes, she forged her niche in the Gryffindor hall of fame.
5. Fred and George Weasley
Hogwarts’ resident jokesters were not only funny for laughs—they were inventors, businesspeople, and warriors in their capacities. Between creating brilliant magical gizmos, becoming members of the Order, and fighting in the war, the twins demonstrated that humor and heroism go very well together.
4. Remus Lupin
Remus was the uncommon teacher who made Defense Against the Dark Arts learning memorable. A genius spellcaster with unparalleled generosity, he never allowed himself to be held back by being a werewolf. He fought in both the wizarding wars, frequently on the front line, and became skilled at magic most wizards couldn’t even manage.
3. Hermione Granger
Hermione is living evidence that bravery and smarts are both Gryffindor traits. She spoke out against bigotry, learned advanced spells before the majority of students even attempted them, and—let’s be honest—saved Harry and Ron’s necks more times than anyone can remember.
2. Albus Dumbledore
When talking of legendary wizards, one names Dumbledore first. His mastery in magic was unrivaled; his strategic mind shaped the fight against Voldemort, while his guidance helped mold Harry into the hero he became.
1. Minerva McGonagall
The quintessential Gryffindor, McGonagall was hard as she was just. Whether fighting Death Eaters, disobeying Umbridge, or guarding her students come hell or high water, she led by action and never wavered. She’s the heart of Gryffindor’s tradition.
From bold warriors to brilliant intellectuals, these wizards and witches showed the true magic of Gryffindor to be courage, commitment, and a pinch of risk-taking. And if you believe me, that’s the recipe for revolutionizing the wizarding world—one daring move at a time.