HBO has unveiled the first official image of Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in the upcoming TV adaptation, confirming the series will premiere in 2027. Production has begun at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in the UK, the same location where the original films were shot. The show promises a faithful adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s books, with each season covering one novel.
The series features a mix of newcomers and established actors, including John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Nick Frost as Hagrid, and Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape. The young trio—McLaughlin (Harry), Arabella Stanton (Hermione), and Alastair Stout (Ron)—were selected from over 30,000 auditions.
First Look at the New Harry Potter
The first image shows 11-year-old Dominic McLaughlin in full Hogwarts attire, complete with round glasses and the lightning scar. The casting team searched for actors aged 9 to 11 to ensure authenticity.
“The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen,” said executive producers Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod.
Full Cast and Key Characters
The series has revealed several major casting choices:
- John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore (replacing Michael Gambon and Richard Harris).
- Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall (taking over from Maggie Smith).
- Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape (previously played by Alan Rickman).
- Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid (following Robbie Coltrane’s portrayal).
- Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom, Amos Kitson as Dudley Dursley, and Louise Brealey as Madam Hooch.
Additional cast includes Lox Pratt (Draco Malfoy), Johnny Flynn (Lucius Malfoy), and Katherine Parkinson (Molly Weasley).
Production Details and Filming Schedule
Filming began on July 14, 2025, at Leavesden Studios, with Season 1 expected to wrap in spring 2026. HBO plans to film Season 2 shortly after to account for the young actors’ growth.
“One of the ideas we talked about was shooting the first season and the second season very close to each other time-wise, because 11 to 13 is a big jump in kids’ lives,” said HBO CEO Casey Bloys.
The production team includes Oscar-winning costume designer Holly Waddington (Poor Things) and Succession director Mark Mylod.
A Faithful Adaptation of the Books
Unlike the films, the series will have more screen time to explore book details. Each season will adapt one novel, with the full series expected to run for 10 years.
“This new Max Original series will dive deep into each of the iconic books that fans have continued to enjoy for all of these years,” said Bloys.
Controversy Around J.K. Rowling’s Involvement
Rowling, who has faced backlash for her comments on transgender issues, remains an executive producer. HBO has confirmed she will not be removed from the project.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions. Some fans are excited, while others question the need for a remake so soon after the films.
“It’s too soon after the movies, the casting is all wrong, and there’s a big portion of viewers who will not watch out of protest to the author,” commented one fan.
Others are optimistic:
“As a huge Harry Potter fan, I got goosebumps when I saw that picture. I hope they stay faithful to the books.”
Where and When to Watch
The Harry Potter TV series will premiere on HBO and HBO Max in 2027, with a global rollout including Germany, Italy, and the UK.
Also read: Bertie Carvel Says His Future In Harry Potter Reboot Depends On Fan Reactions
Credits: The Verge, Warner Bros. Discovery, TVLine
