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  • First Images from the ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series

    Dominic McLaughlin in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Dominic McLaughlin in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    Preview:

    • The first official look at the new ‘Harry Potter’ series is online.
    • Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout are Harry, Ron and Hermione.
    • ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ will arrive at Christmas.

    With the show having been in development for a while now, HBO has taken the UK launch of its streaming service to offer up the first images from the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series, which not-so-shockingly is calling its first season ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’, including looks at the likes of three leads Harry, Ron and Hermione, played by Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout.

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    The cast also includes Nick Frost (Hagrid), John Lithgow (Dumbledore), Janet McTeer (McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (Snape) and Warwick Davis (who is the one carryover from the movie cast, to play Professor Flitwick). And the first teaser has also arrived –– find that at the bottom of the page.

    Related Article: ‘Harry Potter’ Series Shares First Look at Dominic McLaughlin as Harry

    What’s the story of the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?

    John Lithgow in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.
    John Lithgow in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.

    From the sounds of it, the show won’t venture too far from the books, just taking the expanded running time a TV series allows to adapt more from them.

    Here’s the official logline: “There is nothing special about Harry Potter – at least that’s what his Aunt Petunia always says. On his 11th birthday, a letter of admittance to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry opens up a hidden world for Harry: one of fun, friendship and magic. But with this new adventure comes great risk as Harry is forced to face a dangerous enemy from his past…”

    When will the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series be on screens?

    Nick Frost in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Nick Frost in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    HBO Max has confirmed a Christmas 2026 release for this initial season.

    (L to R) Alastair Stout, Dominic McLaughlin and Arabella Stanton in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    (L to R) Alastair Stout, Dominic McLaughlin and Arabella Stanton in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:

    Buy ‘Harry Potter’ Movies On Amazon

    Hogwarts Express in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Hogwarts Express in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Paapa Essiedu in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.
    Paapa Essiedu in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.
    Janet McTeer in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.
    Janet McTeer in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.
    Lox Pratt in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.
    Lox Pratt in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.
    (L to R) Daniel Rigby and Bel Powley in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    (L to R) Daniel Rigby and Bel Powley in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Amos Kitson in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Amos Kitson in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Dominic McLaughlin in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Dominic McLaughlin in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Arabella Stanton in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Arabella Stanton in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Alastair Stout in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Alastair Stout in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Dominic McLaughlin in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Dominic McLaughlin in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
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  • Warwick Davis Returning for ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series

    Warwick Davis with the Hogwarts 'Harry Potter' train. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Warwick Davis with the Hogwarts ‘Harry Potter’ train. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    Preview:

    • HBO’s Harry Potter series has Warwick Davis returning as Professor Flitwick.
    • Young actors Elijah Oshin, Finn Stephens and William Nash are also aboard.
    • The show will be on screens in 2027.

    While the vast majority of the HBO ‘Harry Potter’ series is brand new casting, the company used the latest “Back to Hogwarts” showcase (a promo event linked to the return of Hogwarts students to the school) to announced that Warwick Davis, who played Professor Filius Flitwick in the movies, will be back for the show.

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    On the new casting front, news arrived that another batch of Hogwarts students and faculty have been added, including Elijah Oshin as Dean Thomas, Finn Stephens as Vincent Crabbe, William Nash as Gregory Goyle, Sirine Saba as Professor Pomona Sprout, Richard Durden as Professor Cuthbert Binns, and Bríd Brennan as Madam Poppy Pomfrey.

    Related Article: ‘Harry Potter’ Series Shares First Look at Dominic McLaughlin as Harry

    What’s the story of the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?

    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in 'Harry Potter' (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in ‘Harry Potter’ (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    “The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved ‘Harry Potter’ book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. It will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters ‘Harry Potter’ fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring ‘Harry Potter’ and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.”

    From the looks of the new casting, the series aims to replicate a lot about the movies, while also looking to chart its own course.

    Who else has been cast in the ‘Harry Potter’ series?

    'Harry Potter' TV series cast (from left to right): John Lithgow (Credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (Credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (Credit: Ruth Crafer), Nick Frost (Credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (Credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (Credit: Mike Marsland).
    ‘Harry Potter’ TV series cast (from left to right): John Lithgow (Credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (Credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (Credit: Ruth Crafer), Nick Frost (Credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (Credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (Credit: Mike Marsland).

    There are the big three: Dominic McLaughlin as Harry, alongside co-stars Arabella Stanton (Hermione Granger) and Alastair Stout (Ron Weasley).

    Bel Powley and Daniel Rigby are playing Petunia and Vernon Dursley, AKA Harry’s aunt and uncle, who begrudgingly take the boy in as a baby following the death of his parents at the hands of Voldemort.

    The couple –– who dote on overweight son Dudley (who we now know will be played by Amos Kitson) –– make Harry sleep in a cupboard under the stairs and have no time for the magical world he’ll come to be a key part of.

    Katherine Parkinson, meanwhile, has scored the role of Molly Weasley, the caring, offbeat mother of the Weasley clan, who come to see Harry as a member of the family).

    Bertie Carvel is on board as Cornelius Fudge, the blustering Minister of Magic.

    Lox Pratt will be Draco Malfoy (Harry’s main rival at Hogwarts) and Johnny Flynn is playing Lucius Malfoy, his preening, proud father.

    We also know that Leo Earley will be Seamus Finnigan, Alessia Leoni scored the role of Parvati Patil, and Sienna Moosah is playing Lavender Brown, all three of them students at Hogwarts.

    Previously, we learned that John Lithgow would be Albus Dumbledore, alongside Janet McTeer (Professor Minerva McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (as Severus Snape) and Nick Frost (bringing gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid to screens), and they’ll make up part of the series regular cohort alongside the young newcomers.

    Stage actor Luke Thallon (whose main screen credit so far has been a tiny role in 2018’s ‘The Favourite’) and UK comedian and actor Paul Whitehouse (who US audiences might know from ‘The Death of Stalin’ but also has ‘Potter’ form after playing Sir Cadogan in third movie ‘The Prisoner of Azkaban’), as recurring guest stars.

    Thallon has nabbed the role of Professor Quirinus Quirrell, a key part of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ while Whitehouse is set to play Hogwarts caretaker and grumpy cat owner Argus Filch, who pops up throughout the stories.

    When will the ‘Harry Potter’ series be on screens?

    With production now under way on the series, HBO has at least confirmed that it will be hitting the streaming service in 2027, though an exact date has yet to be revealed.

    (L to R) Robbie Coltrane and Daniel Radcliffe in 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Robbie Coltrane and Daniel Radcliffe in ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:

    Buy ‘Harry Potter’ Movies On Amazon

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  • First Look at Dominic McLaughlin as HBO’s Harry Potter

    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in 'Harry Potter' (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in ‘Harry Potter’ (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    Preview:

    • The HBO ‘Harry Potter’ series has unveiled the first look at its title character.
    • And Anton Lesser, Louise Brealey, Rory Wilmot and Amos Kitson join the cast.
    • The show will be on screens in 2027.

    While we have already seen an image of ‘Harry Potter’ TV series star Dominic McLaughlin as Harry alongside his co-stars Arabella Stanton (Hermione Granger) and Alastair Stout (Ron Weasley).

    Now we have the first look at McLaughlin in his Hogwarts robes as the show has now entered production, along with a new set of casting choices.

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    Probably the best-known names of the latest ensemble members are Anton Lesser, recently seen in ‘Andor’, who has landed the role of wand shop proprietor Garrick Ollivander, and ‘Such Brave Girls’ Louise Brealey, playing Madam Rolanda Hooch, the Hogwarts flying instructor and Quidditch referee.

    Related Article: ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series Adds Bel Powley, Bertie Carvel & More to Cast

    What’s the story of the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?

    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2' (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2’ (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.

    Here’s the official HBO statement on the show:

    “The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved ‘Harry Potter’ book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. It will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters ‘Harry Potter’ fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring ‘Harry Potter’ and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.”

    Gardiner scored the job of showrunner after HBO conducted an extensive search for the right writer/producer. Mylod will direct multiple episodes of the series, having worked on the likes of ‘Succession’ and ‘Game of Thrones.’

    The show will be shot at Warner Bros.’ Leavesden Studios facility outside London in the UK, where the movies were made.

    Who else has been cast in the ‘Harry Potter’ series?

    'Harry Potter' TV series cast (from left to right): John Lithgow (Credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (Credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (Credit: Ruth Crafer), Nick Frost (Credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (Credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (Credit: Mike Marsland).
    ‘Harry Potter’ TV series cast (from left to right): John Lithgow (Credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (Credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (Credit: Ruth Crafer), Nick Frost (Credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (Credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (Credit: Mike Marsland).

    Bel Powley and Daniel Rigby are playing Petunia and Vernon Dursley, AKA Harry’s aunt and uncle, who begrudgingly take the boy in as a baby following the death of his parents at the hands of Voldemort.

    The couple –– who dote on overweight son Dudley (who we now know will be played by Amos Kitson) –– make Harry sleep in a cupboard under the stairs and have no time for the magical world he’ll come to be a key part of.

    Katherine Parkinson, meanwhile, has scored the role of Molly Weasley, the caring, offbeat mother of the Weasley clan, who come to see Harry as a member of the family).

    Bertie Carvel is on board as Cornelius Fudge, the blustering Minister of Magic.

    Lox Pratt will be Draco Malfoy (Harry’s main rival at Hogwarts) and Johnny Flynn is playing Lucius Malfoy, his preening, proud father.

    We also know that Leo Earley will be Seamus Finnigan, Alessia Leoni scored the role of Parvati Patil, and Sienna Moosah is playing Lavender Brown, all three of them students at Hogwarts.

    Previously, we learned that John Lithgow would be Albus Dumbledore, alongside Janet McTeer (Professor Minerva McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (as Severus Snape) and Nick Frost (bringing gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid to screens), and they’ll make up part of the series regular cohort alongside the young newcomers.

    Stage actor Luke Thallon (whose main screen credit so far has been a tiny role in 2018’s ‘The Favourite’) and UK comedian and actor Paul Whitehouse (who US audiences might know from ‘The Death of Stalin’ but also has ‘Potter’ form after playing Sir Cadogan in third movie ‘The Prisoner of Azkaban’), as recurring guest stars.

    Thallon has nabbed the role of Professor Quirinus Quirrell, a key part of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ while Whitehouse is set to play Hogwarts caretaker and grumpy cat owner Argus Filch, who pops up throughout the stories.

    What about the J.K. Rowling issue?

    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    ‘Potter’ creator and original novelist J.K. Rowling is a big consideration here, since A) she has final say on anything adapted from the books and B) is a problematic figure given her negative views on trans people.

    This was HBO’s recent statement on the issue:

    “Warner Bros. has been working with J.K. Rowling and in the ‘Harry Potter’ business for over 20 years. Her contribution has been invaluable. We are proud to once again tell the story of ‘Harry Potter’ — the heartwarming books that speak to power of friendship, resolve and acceptance. J.K. Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.”

    Fiennes (yes, him again) weighed in on the issue when talking to The New York Times in 2022:

    “J.K. Rowling has written these great books about empowerment, about young children finding themselves as human beings. It’s about how you become a better, stronger, more morally centered human being. The verbal abuse directed at her is disgusting, it’s appalling. I mean, I can understand a viewpoint that might be angry at what she says about women. But it’s not some obscene, über-right-wing fascist. It’s just a woman saying, ‘I’m a woman and I feel I’m a woman and I want to be able to say that I’m a woman.’ And I understand where she’s coming from. Even though I’m not a woman.”

    When will the ‘Harry Potter’ series be on screens?

    With production now under way on the series, HBO Max has at least confirmed that it will be hitting the streaming service in 2027, though an exact date has yet to be revealed.

    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in 'Harry Potter' (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in ‘Harry Potter’ (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:

    Buy ‘Harry Potter’ Movies On Amazon

    hMpBzPJR
  • ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series Adds Nine More Cast Members

    (Left) Bel Powley in ’Turn Me On’. Photo: Vertical. (Right) Bertie Carvel in ‘The Crown’ Photo: Netflix / LeftBank.
    (Left) Bel Powley in ’Turn Me On’. Photo: Vertical. (Right) Bertie Carvel in ‘The Crown’ Photo: Netflix / LeftBank.

    Preview:

    • The HBO ‘Harry Potter’ series has added nine new faces.
    • Bel Powley, Bertie Carvel and Katherine Parkinson are among them.
    • Francesca Gardiner is running the show.

    Having locked in their Harry, Ron and Hermione plus a sprinkling of other casting, ‘Harry Potter’ TV series showrunner Francesca Gardiner and main director Mark Mylod have now found a whole host of other actors to fill some major and minor roles in the series.

    HBO announced that the likes of Bel Powley (‘The Diary of a Teenage Girl’), Bertie Carvel (‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’), Katherine Parkinson (‘The Boat that Rocked’), Johnny Flynn (‘Emma’) and Daniel Rigby (‘Black Mirror’) are aboard the show.

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    Powley and Rigby are playing Petunia and Vernon Dursley, AKA Harry’s aunt and uncle, who begrudgingly take the boy in as a baby following the death of his parents at the hands of Voldemort.

    The couple –– who dote on overweight son Dudley –– make Harry sleep in a cupboard under the stairs and have no time for the magical world he’ll come to be a key part of.

    Parkinson has scored the role of Molly Weasley, the caring, offbeat mother of the Weasley clan, who come to see Harry as a member of the family).

    Carvel, meanwhile, is on board as Cornelius Fudge, the blustering Minister of Magic.

    We’ll talk more about the others further down the page…

    Related Article: ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series Finds Young Cast to be Harry, Ron and Hermione

    What’s the story of the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?

    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2' (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2’ (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.

    Here’s the official HBO statement on the show:

    “The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved ‘Harry Potter’ book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. It will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters ‘Harry Potter’ fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring ‘Harry Potter’ and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.”

    Gardiner scored the job of showrunner after HBO conducted an extensive search for the right writer/producer. Mylod will direct multiple episodes of the series, having worked on the likes of ‘Succession’ and ‘Game of Thrones.’

    The show will be shot at Warner Bros.’ Leavesden Studios facility outside London in the UK, where the movies were made.

    Who else has been cast in the ‘Harry Potter’ series?

    (Left) John Lithgow stars as Cardinal Tremblay in director Edward Berger's 'Conclave', a Focus Features release. Credit: Philippe Antonello/Focus Features ©2024 All Rights Reserved. (Right) Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore in 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (Left) John Lithgow stars as Cardinal Tremblay in director Edward Berger’s ‘Conclave’, a Focus Features release. Credit: Philippe Antonello/Focus Features ©2024 All Rights Reserved. (Right) Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore in ‘Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    This latest batch of casting announcements follows word that Dominic McLaughlin will be Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton has the role of Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout is playing Ron Weasley.

    The other new cast announced in the last day or so include newcomer Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy (Harry’s main rival at Hogwarts) and Flynn as Lucius Malfoy, his preening, manipulative father.

    We also know that Leo Earley will be Seamus Finnigan, Alessia Leoni scored the role of Parvati Patil, and Sienna Moosah is playing Lavender Brown, all three of them students at Hogwarts.

    (Left) Nick Frost in 'Shaun of the Dead'. Photo: Universal Pictures. (Right) Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid in the 'Harry Potter' series. Photo: Warner Bros.
    (Left) Nick Frost in ‘Shaun of the Dead’. Photo: Universal Pictures. (Right) Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid in the ‘Harry Potter’ series. Photo: Warner Bros.

    Previously, we learned that John Lithgow would be Albus Dumbledore, alongside Janet McTeer (Professor Minerva McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (as Severus Snape) and Nick Frost (bringing gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid to screens), and they’ll make up part of the series regular cohort alongside the young newcomers.

    In addition, Luke Thallon (whose main screen credit so far has been a tiny role in 2018’s ‘The Favourite’) and UK comedian and actor Paul Whitehouse (who US audiences might know from ‘The Death of Stalin’ but also has ‘Potter’ form after playing Sir Cadogan in third movie ‘The Prisoner of Azkaban’) are recurring guest stars.

    Thallon has nabbed the role of Professor Quirinus Quirrell, a key part of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ while Whitehouse is set to play Hogwarts caretaker and grumpy cat owner Argus Filch, who pops up throughout the stories.

    What about the J.K. Rowling issue?

    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    ‘Potter’ creator and original novelist J.K. Rowling is a big consideration here, since A) she has final say on anything adapted from the books and B) is a problematic figure given her negative views on trans people.

    This was HBO’s recent statement on the issue:

    “Warner Bros. has been working with J.K. Rowling and in the ‘Harry Potter’ business for over 20 years. Her contribution has been invaluable. We are proud to once again tell the story of ‘Harry Potter’ — the heartwarming books that speak to power of friendship, resolve and acceptance. J.K. Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.”

    Fiennes (yes, him again) weighed in on the issue when talking to The New York Times in 2022:

    “J.K. Rowling has written these great books about empowerment, about young children finding themselves as human beings. It’s about how you become a better, stronger, more morally centered human being. The verbal abuse directed at her is disgusting, it’s appalling. I mean, I can understand a viewpoint that might be angry at what she says about women. But it’s not some obscene, über-right-wing fascist. It’s just a woman saying, ‘I’m a woman and I feel I’m a woman and I want to be able to say that I’m a woman.’ And I understand where she’s coming from. Even though I’m not a woman.”

    When will the ‘Harry Potter’ series be on screens?

    HBO CEO Casey Bloys recently said that he expects the show to debut in late 2026 or early 2027, which makes sense given that production isn’t likely to start until later this year.

    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy adventure 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy adventure ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

    List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:

    Buy ‘Harry Potter’ Movies On Amazon

    hMpBzPJR
  • ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series Casts its Harry, Ron and Hermione

    (L to R) Arabella Stanton, Dominic McLaughlin, and Alastair Stout, leads of the new HBO 'Harry Potter' series. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    (L to R) Arabella Stanton, Dominic McLaughlin, and Alastair Stout, leads of the new HBO ‘Harry Potter’ series. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    Preview:

    • The HBO ‘Harry Potter’ series has found its Harry, Ron and Hermione.
    • Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout have the roles.
    • John Lithgow is playing Dumbledore.

    There is another chosen one.

    A chosen three, actually, as now we know who will be following in the high-profile footsteps of Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint as Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley in the ambitious new HBO series adapted from J.K. Rowling’s novels.

    The new actors are Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout.

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    Here’s the statement from showrunner Francesca Gardiner and main director Mark Mylod about the new casting choices:

    “After an extraordinary search led by casting directors Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann, 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. We would like to thank all the tens of thousands of children who auditioned. It’s been a real pleasure to discover the plethora of young talent out there.”

    The process to find the Boy Who Lived and his two best friends has gone on for months and months, following a much-publicized open callout published by the show’s casting director Bevan, which asked for children aged between nine and 11 as of April 2025 who were residents of the UK and Ireland.

    The three are mostly newcomers, though McLaughlin has a role in the BBC’s upcoming action adventure series ‘Gifted’ while Stanton played Matilda in ‘Matilda The Musical’ in London’s West End across several months.

    Related Article:  HBO Confirms John Lithgow, Janet McTeer and more for ‘Harry Potter’ Series

    What’s the story of the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?

    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2' (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2’ (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.

    Here’s the official HBO statement on the show:

    “The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved ‘Harry Potter’ book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. It will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters ‘Harry Potter’ fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring ‘Harry Potter’ and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.”

    Gardiner scored the job of showrunner after HBO conducted an extensive search for the right writer/producer. Mylod will direct multiple episodes of the series, having worked on the likes of ‘Succession’ and ‘Game of Thrones.’

    The show will be shot at Warner Bros.’ Leavesden Studios facility outside London in the UK, where the movies were made.

    Who else has been cast in the ‘Harry Potter’ series?

    (Left) John Lithgow stars as Cardinal Tremblay in director Edward Berger's 'Conclave', a Focus Features release. Credit: Philippe Antonello/Focus Features ©2024 All Rights Reserved. (Right) Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore in 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (Left) John Lithgow stars as Cardinal Tremblay in director Edward Berger’s ‘Conclave’, a Focus Features release. Credit: Philippe Antonello/Focus Features ©2024 All Rights Reserved. (Right) Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore in ‘Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    Previously, we learned that John Lithgow would be Albus Dumbledore, alongside Janet McTeer (Professor Minerva McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (as Severus Snape) and Nick Frost (bringing gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid to screens), and they’ll make up part of the series regular cohort alongside the young newcomers.

    In addition, Luke Thallon (whose main screen credit so far has been a tiny role in 2018’s ‘The Favourite’) and UK comedian and actor Paul Whitehouse (who US audiences might know from ‘The Death of Stalin’ but also has ‘Potter’ form after playing Sir Cadogan in third movie ‘The Prisoner of Azkaban’) are recurring guest stars.

    Thallon has nabbed the role of Professor Quirinus Quirrell, a key part of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ while Whitehouse is set to play Hogwarts caretaker and grumpy cat owner Argus Filch, who pops up throughout the stories.

    What about the J.K. Rowling issue?

    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    ‘Potter’ creator and original novelist J.K. Rowling is a big consideration here, since A) she has final say on anything adapted from the books and B) is a problematic figure given her negative views on trans people.

    This was HBO’s recent statement on the issue:

    “Warner Bros. has been working with J.K. Rowling and in the ‘Harry Potter’ business for over 20 years. Her contribution has been invaluable. We are proud to once again tell the story of ‘Harry Potter’ — the heartwarming books that speak to power of friendship, resolve and acceptance. J.K. Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.”

    Fiennes (yes, him again) weighed in on the issue when talking to The New York Times in 2022:

    “J.K. Rowling has written these great books about empowerment, about young children finding themselves as human beings. It’s about how you become a better, stronger, more morally centered human being. The verbal abuse directed at her is disgusting, it’s appalling. I mean, I can understand a viewpoint that might be angry at what she says about women. But it’s not some obscene, über-right-wing fascist. It’s just a woman saying, ‘I’m a woman and I feel I’m a woman and I want to be able to say that I’m a woman.’ And I understand where she’s coming from. Even though I’m not a woman.”

    When will the ‘Harry Potter’ series be on screens?

    HBO CEO Casey Bloys recently said that he expects the show to debut in late 2026 or early 2027, which makes sense given that production isn’t likely to start until later this year.

    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy adventure 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy adventure ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

    List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:

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