HBO has revealed the first look at Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid in the upcoming Harry Potter TV series. The image shows Frost in full costume as the beloved half-giant, marking a major milestone for the highly-anticipated show. Filming began this week at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in the UK, with the series set to debut in 2027.
Frost steps into the role previously played by the late Robbie Coltrane in the original films. The new series will adapt each of J.K. Rowling’s books into individual seasons, starting with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
First Look at Nick Frost as Hagrid
The first image of Frost as Hagrid shows the actor wearing the character’s signature shaggy beard, long hair, and oversized robes. Fans immediately compared his appearance to Coltrane’s iconic portrayal. Frost acknowledged the challenge of taking on the role but promised to bring his own interpretation.
“While I’m really aware of what went before me in terms of Robbie’s amazing performance, I’m never going to try and be Robbie. I’m going to try and do something, not ‘different,’ but respectful to the subject matter. I always read Hagrid as he’s like a lovely, lost, violent, funny, warm child.”
The series will explore Hagrid’s character in greater depth, with Frost emphasizing his comedic and protective sides.
Full Cast and Production Details
The Harry Potter series has assembled a star-studded cast. Dominic McLaughlin leads as Harry Potter, alongside Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. Other key cast members include:
- John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
- Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
- Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
- Katherine Parkinson as Molly Weasley
- Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy
- Johnny Flynn as Lucius Malfoy
New additions announced this week include Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom, Amos Kitson as Dudley Dursley, and Louise Brealey as Madam Hooch.
The show is being developed by Francesca Gardiner (His Dark Materials) as showrunner, with Mark Mylod (Succession) directing multiple episodes.
Fan Reactions to Frost’s Casting
The first look at Frost as Hagrid has sparked mixed reactions. Some fans praised the casting, while others questioned the wig and beard styling.
“Great choice! Nick Frost has the perfect warmth for Hagrid.”
“Love Nick Frost, but no chance of out-Hagrid-ing Hagrid.”
“The wig and beard look very unnatural. Makeup artists need more work.”
Despite some criticism, many are excited to see Frost’s take on the character. His background in comedy (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz) suggests he’ll bring humor to the role.
Controversy Surrounding the Series
The Harry Potter TV series has faced backlash due to J.K. Rowling’s controversial statements on gender. Frost addressed the issue in a recent interview, stating:
“I don’t agree with Rowling’s views. Maybe we shouldn’t just hope it will go away. Maybe we should educate ourselves.”
Some fans have called for a boycott, but the series remains one of HBO’s biggest upcoming projects.
What to Expect from the Series
The show promises a faithful adaptation of the books, with more room for character development than the films. Each season will cover one book, allowing deeper exploration of side characters and subplots.
Also read: HBO Releases First Look at New Harry Potter TV Series and Confirms 2027 Premiere Date
Filming for Season 1 is expected to continue until spring 2026, with a 2027 release on HBO and HBO Max.
