Everything We Know About HBO’s ‘Harry Potter’ Series

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More than a decade since “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2” graced movie theaters and concluded Harry’s cinematic adventure, the magical world of Harry Potter is preparing to make its comeback through a series of television episodes.

Under the guidance of showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod from “Succession,” HBO’s adaptation of the popular book-turned-film series intends to rejuvenate the enchanting world where Harry Potter learns he possesses magical abilities, leaving his non-magical family behind to enroll at Hogwarts, a school dedicated to magic. As Harry journeys through this new life, he forms friendships with Ron and Hermione and becomes instrumental in a resistance against the dark wizard, Lord Voldemort, who is more commonly referred to as “He-Who-Cannot-Be-Named.

The show is nearly three decades since J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s (or Sorcerer’s) Stone” was published, which later became a film directed by Chris Columbus in 2001. Over its entire run, the initial “Harry Potter” movie series garnered an astounding $7.7 billion at global box offices.

Here is everything we know so far about HBO’s “Harry Potter” TV series.

Who has been cast in the show?

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been confirmed alongside some exceptional talents for an upcoming series! John Lithgow will embody Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer will bring Minerva McGonagall to life, Paapa Essiedu will play Severus Snape, and Nick Frost will portray Rubeus Hagrid. Can’t wait to join forces with this stellar cast!

Moreover, Luke Thallon (from Tom Stoppard’s “Leopoldstadt” and Rupert Goold’s “Patriots”) has been cast to reprise the character of Quirinus Quirrell, while Paul Whitehouse (“The Fast Show,” “Harry & Paul”) will portray Argus Filch in future appearances.

Previously, Lithgow participated in an episode of “Know Their Lines” on EbMaster, during which he inquired about the novelty of the show’s production by asking: “What makes this different?

Lithgow admitted that he’s not as familiar with the Harry Potter series as many people seem to be. Making the choice to take on this role was significant because it would occupy a large portion of his life for years to come. Moreover, he’s not getting any younger, and this could be one of his final major acting assignments.

He further shared his unique bond with the late actor, Michael Gambon, who portrayed Dumbledore in the last six films. “I’ve always been a big fan of Michael Gambon,” he expressed. “I never got to meet him, but I always looked up to him as an idol. Interestingly, both Michael Gambon and I share the same birthday, which I found quite magical and reminiscent of wizards.

How will the show differ from the movies?

Each book from the series of seven forms a complete season. Discussions have revolved around utilizing this adaptation as an opportunity for Gardiner and Myold to broaden upon the books’ and movies’ narratives without compromising their enduring legacy. For instance, they expressed a wish to preserve rather than alter the iconic appearance of the Great Hall.

As a die-hard film enthusiast, I can’t wait to delve deep into the intricate character development of the less-explored figures at Hogwarts. From the unseen staff members to the hardworking workers, I’m eager to uncover their backstories and understand their roles in this magical world.

Will J.K. Rowling be a part of the show?

More recently, one of the contentious aspects surrounding the Harry Potter universe has been J.K. Rowling’s public statements online that have drawn criticism from transgender and non-binary individuals. Despite this, it has been announced that Rowling will take on the role of executive producer for the upcoming series.

At a press event held on November 12th, HBO’s head, Casey Bloys, revealed that J.K. Rowling played an extremely active role in the selection of both the author and the director for their ongoing project, despite any concerns arising from her past comments about transgender individuals not impacting their choice to collaborate with her.

J.K. Rowling has consistently expressed her opinions. Following John Oliver’s comments earlier this month about the right wing’s fixation on barring transgender athletes, Rowling responded on platform X by saying, “Adopting unpopular stances against women’s rights was once necessary for success. However, it’s now time to realize where everyone stands, and it’s clear that we need to be more sensitive.

Do we know who is playing Harry, Ron and Hermione yet?

I’ve yet to step into the limelight, but it seems that a significant number of young hopefuls – about 32,000 in Ireland and the U.K., to be precise – have already tried their luck for the starring roles of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. As we speak, on December 5th, Gardiner and Mylod are still going through the audition videos.

When will the show be filmed and released?

The filming for this show is scheduled for next summer, specifically at Leavesden, which was also the location for previous films. Starting from 2026, HBO’s “Harry Potter” series will make its premiere on their streaming platform Max.

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2025-04-14 22:46