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Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the creator of the Harry Potter universe gave a glowing endorsement of HBO’s upcoming television adaptation of her world-famous book series.
The show, which promises to be a “faithful adaptation,” is set to begin filming in mid-2025. Rowling isn’t just rubber-stamping this one from afar — she confirmed she’s been working “closely with the extremely talented writers.”
“I read the first two episodes of the forthcoming HBO ‘Harry Potter’ series and they are SO, SO, SO GOOD!” she wrote, leaving no room for doubt about her excitement.
While she won’t have a screenwriting credit on the show (unlike her involvement in the Fantastic Beasts films), her creative presence is still being felt behind the scenes. Francesca Gardiner will serve as showrunner, writer, and executive producer, with acclaimed director Mark Mylod also on board as both a director and producer. HBO intends to adapt each of the seven books into its own season — a commitment that fans of the Wizarding World will no doubt welcome.
Casting a New Spell: Meet the New Faces of Hogwarts
With production on the horizon, casting has taken shape and is already sparking conversation. Dominic McLaughlin will step into the iconic role of Harry Potter, with Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout taking on Ron Weasley. HBO is clearly aiming to usher in a new generation of fans while maintaining the magic of the originals.
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Among the broader cast, we’ll see veteran actors and rising stars: John Lithgow as Headmaster Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu (Black Mirror) as Snape, and Nick Frost as the lovable half-giant Hagrid.
Other additions include Luke Thallon (Professor Quirrell), Paul Whitehouse (Argus Filch), Katherine Parkinson (Molly Weasley), and Lox Pratt (Draco Malfoy), among many others.
Rowling’s Controversies and HBO’s Response
Despite the buzz around the show, Rowling’s involvement continues to stir debate. Since 2020, the author has drawn criticism for views many interpret as transphobic.
She’s remained vocal on social media, often clashing with critics and public figures alike. Yet, her stance hasn’t dissuaded HBO.
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Casey Bloys, Chairman and CEO of HBO & Max Content, has been unwavering in his support. “The decision to be in business with J.K. Rowling is not new for us. We’ve been in business for 25 years,” Bloys said in a May appearance on The Town podcast. “We already have a show on HBO from her called C.B. Strike that we do with the BBC. It’s pretty clear that those are her personal, political views. She’s entitled to them. Harry Potter is not secretly being infused with anything.”
He also dismissed concerns about backlash affecting production: “Her anti-trans statements haven’t affected the casting or hiring of writers or production staff.”
Rowling, too, has weighed in on issues surrounding the cast. After actor Paapa Essiedu signed an open letter challenging a U.K. Supreme Court ruling on transgender rights, she made it clear that his views wouldn’t affect his place in the project. “I don’t have the power to sack an actor from the series and I wouldn’t exercise it if I did,” she posted on X. “I don’t believe in taking away people’s jobs or livelihoods because they hold legally protected beliefs that differ from mine.”
What’s Next for the Wizarding World?
With Rowling’s approval, a strong production team, and a refreshed cast, HBO’s Harry Potter reboot is gearing up to reimagine the beloved saga for a new era.
Shooting is expected to begin this summer, with a premiere anticipated in 2026. For fans old and new, the magic is far from over.
Be sure to catch up on everything happening with J.K. Rowling right now. Come back here often for all J.K. Rowling’s spoilers, news, and updates.
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