Production has officially begun on the highly anticipated new Harry Potter television series, with Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in the UK once again serving as the magical backdrop. This fresh adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s beloved seven-book saga is set to debut on HBO and HBO Max in 2027, promising to bring the wizarding world to life for a new generation of fans.
At the heart of this new series is 11-year-old Scottish actor Dominic McLaughlin, who steps into the iconic role of Harry Potter. HBO recently unveiled the first official image of McLaughlin in full costume, complete with the trademark round glasses, Hogwarts robe, and the lightning bolt scar that marks the Boy Who Lived. His casting was confirmed earlier this year, following an extraordinary nationwide search that saw over 30,000 children audition for the legendary roles of Harry, Hermione, and Ron.
Showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod expressed their excitement back in May, stating, “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.” Alongside McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton will portray Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout will take on the role of Ron Weasley. Though all three are relatively new to television, Stanton has a background in the West End musical Matilda, Stout has appeared in TV advertisements, and McLaughlin is set to appear in the Sky Original comedy Grow.
McLaughlin’s casting has already sparked enthusiasm among fans, many noting his uncanny resemblance to Daniel Radcliffe, who famously played Harry Potter in the original film series over two decades ago. Social media responses have ranged from excitement about seeing a “cute” and “adorable” new Harry to calls for kindness toward the young actors amid the inevitable scrutiny that comes with such a high-profile role. However, some voices have expressed reservations about the series, particularly due to J.K. Rowling’s continued involvement as an executive producer and her controversial views on transgender rights, which have sparked debate within the fandom.
The new series promises a faithful adaptation of the seven books, published between 1997 and 2007, with each season designed to explore Harry’s adventures in greater depth than the films allowed. HBO has emphasized that the show will be produced with “the same epic craft, love and care this global franchise is known for,” aiming to capture the fantastic detail, beloved characters, and dramatic locations that have enchanted fans for over 25 years. This approach is expected to provide fans both old and new with a rich, immersive experience that honors the original stories while expanding their reach.
In addition to the main trio, HBO has announced an impressive ensemble cast featuring both seasoned actors and promising newcomers. Rory Wilmot will play Neville Longbottom, Amos Kitson takes on Dudley Dursley, Louise Brealey portrays Madam Rolanda Hooch, and Anton Lesser embodies wandmaker Garrick Ollivander. Brealey is known for her extensive UK theater work, including a recent role in Marianne Elliott’s Husbands & Sons at the National Theatre, while Lesser has appeared with the Royal Shakespeare Company, most recently in Hamlet.
Familiar faces from the wizarding world will be brought to life by well-established actors: John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid. Recurring roles include Luke Thallon as Professor Quirinus Quirrell and five-time BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch. Katherine Parkinson, known for her Olivier Award-nominated performance in Home, I'm Darling, will play Molly Weasley. The Malfoy family will be portrayed by Lox Pratt as Draco and Johnny Flynn as Lucius. Flynn recently starred in the London production of Jack Thorne’s The Motive and the Cue, while newcomers Leo Earley, Alessia Leoni, and Sienna Moosah will play Hogwarts students Seamus Finnigan, Parvati Patil, and Lavender Brown respectively.
The Dursley family, Harry’s non-magical relatives, will be played by Bel Powley as Petunia and Daniel Rigby as Vernon. Both actors have strong stage backgrounds, with Powley appearing on Broadway in Arcadia and Lobby Hero, and Rigby recently performing in the Royal National Theatre’s musical adaptation of The Witches.
Behind the scenes, Francesca Gardiner not only writes the series but also serves as an executive producer alongside director Mark Mylod. J.K. Rowling returns as an executive producer, joined by Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman of Heyday Films, who produced the original film series. The production boasts a team of experienced department heads, including Adriano Goldman as Director of Photography, Cate Hall overseeing Hair and Makeup, Paul Herbert coordinating stunts, and Mark Holt managing special effects. Mara LePere-Schloop leads Production Design, Naomi Moore handles Set Decoration, John Nolan supervises Creature Effects, while Alexis Wajsbrot and Dom Sidoli oversee visual effects. Costume design is led by Holly Waddington, who was announced earlier.
The series will be a decade-long project, allowing ample time to delve into the intricate plotlines and character developments that fans cherish. HBO has stated that while the new adaptation will bring fresh perspectives and greater detail, the original films remain central to the franchise and will continue to be available globally.
As production unfolds at the same studios where the original films were shot, anticipation is building for the new Harry Potter series to cast its own spell on audiences worldwide. Whether longtime fans or newcomers, viewers can look forward to a richly crafted journey through the wizarding world, brought to life by a talented new cast and creative team.
