HBO's Harry Potter series – everything you need to know

While the film saga starring Daniel Radcliffe is iconic, let's be honest – a lot of things from the Harry Potter books simply didn't make the cut. That is the main trump card of the upcoming series reboot. The project has officially moved from the planning phase to reality under the HBO banner. Cameras are rolling at Leavesden, the first official trailer has leaked online, and we know the full cast and details on how the creators plan to expand the magical world.

The cards are on the table, and the casting team, led by showrunner Francesca Gardiner (Succession), has mixed a cocktail that is sparking both passion and excitement. If you've spent the last six months in Azkaban without internet access, here is everything you need to know.

The trailer is finally out!

Speculation is over; HBO has finally released the first proper footage. It is clear at first glance that they are taking a much darker and more grounded approach (no exaggerated magical sparkles). Many fans are praising the grittier atmosphere, which is much closer to the original books.

What will the series add and what will it look like?

The creators' main promise is: 1 book = 1 season. The first season, adapting The Philosopher's Stone, gets a generous 8 episodes. This means only one thing – we will finally see the things that didn't fit into the two-hour movies!

It was previously leaked that we would see, for example, a detailed scene of the Hogwarts letter being delivered directly to Hermione (which was missing in the films) or extended scenes from Malfoy Manor. However, the current footage reveals many other details:

• Familiar foundations: Most of the main props and locations remain faithful to what we know from the films. From Harry's scar and iconic glasses to the green calligraphy on the Hogwarts letter and the carriages of the Hogwarts Express. The sweet book details remain too – when the trio meets on the train, Ron naturally has that famous smudge on his nose. The Gryffindor common room and the herbology greenhouse also feel familiar.
• Costumes and a unified title: The Dursleys' wardrobe has undergone the biggest visual change. Conversely, Hagrid's coat, Dumbledore's half-moon spectacles, and the school uniforms maintain the look fans know well. It is also certain that the first season will be titled Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone even in the US market (not Sorcerer's Stone).
• Brand new scenes: The footage promises moments that were never on screen before. We will see, for example, Harry's time at his "Muggle" school before he leaves for Hogwarts, including confrontations with his cousin Dudley. A complete novelty for viewers will be the scene where Hagrid takes Harry on the London Underground.
• Quidditch with a twist: According to new shots (including Dominic McLaughlin in Gryffindor robes), it looks like this popular wizarding sport will get a slightly different visual with updated jerseys and broom designs.

And the most important part? The music for the series is being composed by none other than the legendary Hans Zimmer!

Casting the central trio: New blood

The goal was clear: find fresh-faced kids from Britain who can grow with their roles. No TikTok stars, but talented actors who passed the sieve of over 30,000 applicants.

• Harry Potter: Dominic McLaughlin. A Scottish discovery who has that right amount of "ordinariness" and the hidden anger that Harry needs.
• Ron Weasley: Alastair Stout. Ginger, spontaneous, and according to early reports, he has incredible comedic talent.
• Hermione Grangerová: Arabella Stanton. If you've seen the Matilda musical on the West End, you know that girl can act.

The Hogwarts staff and expanded casting

While the kids are newcomers, the adult roles are filled by British acting elite. And thanks to the longer runtime, characters that the film saga completely ignored are returning.

• Albus Dumbledore: John Lithgow (The Crown, Dexter). A choice that makes sense. Lithgow can become a terrifying and kind grandfather in a second.
• Minerva McGonagall: Janet McTeer. Tall, strict, with a voice like a razor. A worthy successor to Maggie Smith.
• Rubeus Hagrid: Nick Frost (Hot Fuzz). Fans are cheering because Frost has exactly that "bear-like" warmth.
• Filius Flitwick: Warwick Davis! The actor who played the original Professor Flitwick returns to his iconic role.
• Peeves: Peter Serafinowicz! Yes, you read that right. The legendary Hogwarts poltergeist, who was cut from the films, will finally be causing chaos in the series, just as we remember from the books.
• Cornelius Fudge: Bertie Carvel. The future Minister for Magic already has his series face.

Family and Death Eaters: Other familiar faces

• Molly Weasley: Katherine Parkinson (The IT Crowd).
• Lucius Malfoy: Johnny Flynn (Emma, Stardust).
• Draco Malfoy: Lox Pratt. By the way, he will be joined by new Crabbe (Finn Stephens) and Goyle (William Nash).
• The Dursleys: Daniel Rigby (Vernon) and Bel Powley (Petunia). With the longer runtime, their "Muggle pettiness" will get much more space.

The Snape case: Canon vs. casting

The casting of the Potions Master sparked the biggest debate. Severus Snape is played by Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You). Part of the fandom sees this as a departure from the book's visual identity (pale skin, greasy hair). However, HBO and the creators stand firmly behind their interpretation and Essiedu's talent. An added advantage is that the actor is much closer in age to the book's Snape (who was only 31 in The Philosopher's Stone).

J. K. Rowling and the shadows of controversy

Author J. K. Rowling serves as an executive producer on the series, which according to HBO guarantees maximum "fidelity to the source material." However, her involvement has not been without problems due to her public statements regarding trans rights. Many actors face criticism for participating in the project, and John Lithgow recently admitted that he considered stepping down from the role of Dumbledore due to the expected backlash. Nick Frost has previously stated that he does not agree with her views in any way, and Paapa Essiedu even signed a petition last year for the protection of the trans community. Rowling herself responded with a statement that she does not intend to fire anyone for their differing beliefs.

But the tension on set doesn't end there. HBO CEO Casey Bloys confirmed that the production had to implement extremely strict security measures. The reasons include racist attacks and death threats directed at Paapa Essiedu because of his casting as Snape. The crazed fandom is certainly giving the creators a hard time from day one.

When will it start? (Release of the first and second seasons)

We have a crystal clear date! HBO has decided to turn Harry Potter into a Christmas tradition. The first season will arrive on screens right on Christmas Day – December 25, 2026.

And the best for last? The brand believes in huge success, which is why HBO officially confirmed the second season in May 2026, which will adapt The Chamber of Secrets. There is a minor complication currently being resolved (the original actress for Ginny Weasley had to leave the project and a recast is underway), but production is moving along smoothly so the child actors don't age ten years in the meantime.