Warner Bros. seems to have conjured some powerful magic, as they're in the process of breathing new life into the Harry Potter saga, this time in the form of a television series.
David Zaslav, the CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, couldn't hide his enthusiasm during the company's February earnings call, "We've not been shy about our excitement around Harry Potter."
It has been over two decades since the first Harry Potter film enchanted audiences worldwide, and 13 years since "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" concluded the epic tale spanned across seven books and eight movies. The franchise has since expanded with various spin-offs, including the "Fantastic Beasts" film series, the stage play "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," and several themed attractions at theme parks.
However, being a Harry Potter fan has become a complex affair for some due to J.K. Rowling's controversial comments on transgender issues in the summer of 2020. Despite the backlash, Warner Bros. has not slowed down in capitalizing on the franchise, which now includes the announcement of a new Ministry of Magic-themed area at Universal's upcoming Epic Universe theme park in Orlando.
With the Wizarding World showing no signs of slowing down, here's a glimpse at what we know about the forthcoming TV adaptation in development.
When is the Harry Potter TV show release date?
The inaugural season of the series is expected to premiere in 2026 on Max, although a precise release date has yet to be announced.
Where will the Harry Potter TV show air?
Viewers can watch the series on Max, the service previously known as HBO Max.
What is the Harry Potter TV show about?
Mirroring the approach of the "Percy Jackson" series, which transitioned from films to television, the Harry Potter TV series is anticipated to dedicate each season to adapting one of the original seven books.
Is J.K. Rowling involved in the Harry Potter TV show?
Executives from Warner Bros., including Zaslav, recently visited London to discuss the series with Rowling.
"We spent some real time with J.K. and her team," Zaslav shared with shareholders. "Both sides are just thrilled to be reigniting this franchise. Our conversations were great, and we couldn't be more excited about what's ahead. We can't wait to share a decade of new stories with fans around the world on Max."
Rowling's presence was notably absent from the "Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts" special on Max in 2022, except for archival footage. Major stars from the original series such as Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, along with several supporting actors, joined to reflect on their experiences during filming.
Who's cast in the Harry Potter TV show?
No casting details have been released as of yet, and it's uncertain if any original cast members will participate. Warner Bros. has stated that the show will feature an entirely new cast.
Channing Dungey, Chairman and CEO of the Warner Bros. Television Group, mentioned to Variety that the search for new British child actors will commence once they've secured a showrunner. The initial focus will be on casting younger actors to accurately depict the characters at 11 or 12 years of age, as described in the first two books.
Several actors from the film series have expressed that they are unlikely to return due to various reasons, including aging out of their roles and distancing themselves from projects associated with Rowling.
Daniel Radcliffe has publicly stated his lack of interest in the new project, hoping to allow new talent to make their mark. Similarly, Matthew Lewis commented on his age being a barrier to reprising his role but expressed interest in potentially taking on a different character within the series.
Sadly, some of the franchise's beloved actors are no longer with us, such as:
- Michael Gambon (second Albus Dumbledore): Passed away in 2023 at age 82
- Robbie Coltrane (Rubeus Hagrid): Passed away in 2022 at age 72
- Leslie Phillips (voice of the Sorting Hat): Passed away in 2022 at age 98
- Helen McCrory (Narcissa Malfoy): Passed away in 2021 at age 52
- Robert Hardy (Cornelius Fudge): Passed away in 2017 at age 91
- John Hurt (Garrick Ollivander): Passed away in 2017 at age 77
- Alan Rickman (Severus Snape): Passed away in 2016 at age 69
- Richard Griffiths (Vernon Dursley): Passed away in 2013 at age 65
- Richard Harris (first Albus Dumbledore): Passed away in 2002 at age 72
Nevertheless, some actors remain connected to the Harry Potter world, making appearances at fan conventions and theme park events.
Jason Isaacs and Rupert Grint are among those who continue to engage with the fan community, recently appearing at events alongside other cast members such as the Phelps twins, Jessie Cave, Alfred Enoch, and Devon Murray.
