Harry Potter enthusiasts can look forward to a new TV adaptation of the iconic series, set to begin filming next summer with a planned release in 2027. Each of the original seven books will be adapted into a season. Producers have chosen Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod to lead the project, while casting calls for young actors have already attracted 32,000 applications. J.K. Rowling will serve as executive producer despite facing controversy for her views on transgender issues.
Get ready, Harry Potter fans! A fresh take on the beloved series is on the horizon, bringing a brand-new cast to life. As many enthusiasts prepare to enjoy the seventh installment of the film series this Monday evening on TMC, excitement is building for the upcoming TV adaptation. This ambitious project is slowly unveiling its details, with filming slated to start next summer and a projected release in 2027.
What Sparked the Idea for a New Series?
As the most successful literary franchise ever, having sold over 660 million copies, the Harry Potter saga has already captivated audiences through eight films that collectively grossed a staggering $7.7 billion between 2001 and 2011. Although J.K. Rowling initially dismissed the idea of continuing Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s journey, Warner Bros. successfully persuaded her to create a spin-off trilogy, Fantastic Beasts, which earned around $1.8 billion from 2016 to 2022. However, in a surprising turn, the studio announced plans for a new adaptation of the original seven books as a TV series, intending to produce one season for each book, potentially stretching the broadcast over a decade on HBO Max.
Who’s Behind the Scenes?
The writers’ strike in Hollywood during the summer of 2023 caused a delay in the project’s timeline. After evaluating several creative teams, producers opted for a talented duo: screenwriter Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod. At 41, Gardiner has sharpened her skills by adapting His Dark Materials: The Golden Compass, a fantasy series based on Philip Pullman’s novels—a genre that resonates with J.K. Rowling’s work.
Mark Mylod, 59, is a seasoned veteran in the realm of television, having directed multiple episodes of Game of Thrones and helmed the acclaimed horror-comedy The Menu, which debuted in theaters in 2022 featuring Ralph Fiennes.
What’s the Latest on Casting?
With the production in capable hands, fans are eager to know who will step into the iconic roles previously portrayed by Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, and their Hogwarts peers. To find the new trio of young wizards, HBO initiated a casting call last September, seeking applicants aged 9 to 11 from the UK or Ireland. A key aspect of the casting process emphasizes the commitment to an ‘inclusive and diverse‘ ensemble.
To secure an audition, hopeful candidates submitted two videos: one for self-introduction and another showcasing a short story or poem of their choice. During an interview in early December, Mark Mylod revealed that the production received an impressive 32,000 applications! He assures that every submission will be thoroughly reviewed to create a shortlist of candidates to work with post-Christmas.
Just like in the films, the production aims to surround its young stars with seasoned actors. According to Variety, Mark Rylance is a frontrunner for the role of Albus Dumbledore, while Paapa Essiedu may take on the iconic Professor Severus Snape. Additionally, Ralph Fiennes has voiced his support for Cillian Murphy to potentially succeed him as Voldemort, although this remains speculative for now.
Is J.K. Rowling Playing a Role in the Series?
Despite the Harry Potter franchise’s enduring popularity, its creator, J.K. Rowling, has faced significant backlash in recent years due to her controversial remarks concerning transgender issues. Her statements have drawn criticism from former cast members, including Daniel Radcliffe, yet she continues to stand by her views. In January 2022, Rowling was notably absent from HBO’s special commemorating the 20th anniversary of the first film.
Nevertheless, Rowling will hold the title of executive producer for the new series, having approved the hiring of Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod. HBO’s head, Casey Bloys, defended her involvement, stating, ‘J.K. Rowling has the right to express her opinions‘ and emphasized that ‘developing the new series will benefit from her participation‘.