The Wizarding World is returning—this time to the small screen. HBO has officially greenlit a new Harry Potter television series, which will bring J.K. Rowling’s iconic seven-book saga to life in a decade-long project. With new faces, expanded storylines, and an all-star production team, the series promises to dive deeper into the magical universe like never before.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or an aspiring actor hoping to land a role, here’s your complete guide to the upcoming Harry Potter series—and how you can be a part of it through Project Casting.
A New Era of Harry Potter Magic
Announced in April 2023, the Harry Potter TV series is a fresh adaptation of the original books, aiming for a more detailed and character-driven retelling. HBO clarified that while the series is not yet officially titled Harry Potter, it will be “a faithful adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter books.”
The series will stream exclusively on HBO Max (formerly known as Max, and before that HBO Max), and will span all seven books over multiple seasons, each book receiving its own full season of storytelling.
Development Timeline: From Rumors to Reality
Rumors of a Harry Potter TV show began as early as 2019, but Warner Bros. denied plans at the time. Momentum picked up in 2022 when Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav met with J.K. Rowling to discuss potential new projects. By early 2024, multiple writers had pitched their vision for the series.
Francesca Gardiner (Succession) was ultimately chosen as the lead writer and executive producer, alongside director and fellow executive producer Mark Mylod. Their vision reportedly won J.K. Rowling’s approval, marking a significant milestone for the series.
The show is being produced by Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television, with executive producers including J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts, and David Heyman of Heyday Films.
When Will Harry Potter Start Filming?
Production on the series is set to begin in summer 2025, with the release targeted for 2026. According to HBO executives, the first two seasons may be filmed back-to-back to account for the rapid aging of the young cast.
The creative team is already in place, department heads have been hired, and the scriptwriting process is underway. HBO is also exploring options with visual effects companies, including Framestore, which worked on the original Harry Potter film series.
Meet the Cast: The New Faces of the Wizarding World
In a bold and inclusive move, HBO hosted a very public open casting call for the lead roles of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley. Open to residents of the UK and Ireland aged 9–11, the search yielded over 32,000 auditions. After months of reviews and workshops, the following young actors were selected as the next generation of the Golden Trio:
- Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter
- Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger
- Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley
Joining them are a stellar adult cast:
- John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
- Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
- Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
- Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
- Luke Thallon as Professor Quirrell
- Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch
While some choices—particularly the casting of a Black actor as Snape—have sparked discussion and debate online, the production remains committed to a diverse and inclusive vision that honors the spirit of the books while modernizing the storytelling for a new audience.
Meet the Casting Directors Behind the New Harry Potter Series
A project as ambitious as the Harry Potter television reboot requires not only a visionary production team but also exceptional casting directors to bring the magic to life. For this decade-spanning adaptation, HBO has entrusted two of the industry’s finest talents: Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann.
Lucy Bevan
Lucy Bevan is a veteran casting director known for her work on major studio hits like Barbie (2023), The Batman (2022), and Belfast (2021). With a reputation for identifying breakout talent and assembling ensembles that resonate on screen, Bevan brings a wealth of experience to the Harry Potter reboot. Her ability to strike the perfect balance between character authenticity and audience connection is exactly what’s needed to cast iconic roles such as Harry, Hermione, and Ron for a new generation.
Emily Brockmann
Emily Brockmann joins Bevan in shaping the future of the Wizarding World. She is known for her casting work on Belfast (2021), Matilda: The Musical (2022), and Deadpool & Wolverine (2024). Brockmann’s diverse portfolio showcases her sharp eye for both blockbuster talent and nuanced character roles. Her collaboration with Bevan reflects HBO’s commitment to excellence in reimagining the beloved universe of Harry Potter.
Together, Bevan and Brockmann led a nationwide casting initiative across the UK and Ireland, reviewing over 32,000 applications for the lead roles. Their process prioritized authenticity, chemistry, and diversity—culminating in the successful casting of the Golden Trio.
Behind the Scenes: Production Details and Creative Vision
Gardiner and Mylod have emphasized that this adaptation is not meant to replace or replicate the original films but to enrich the universe. They plan to explore more of Hogwarts’ staff, student life, and magical lore, while keeping iconic settings like the Great Hall intact.
Oscar-winning costume designer Holly Waddington (Poor Things, Lady Macbeth) is heading costume design, and additional department leads are being brought on board as the production gears up for a busy summer start.
Want to Be Part of the Harry Potter TV Series?
This is your chance to join one of the most iconic franchises in entertainment history. With casting still underway for supporting roles, student characters, magical creatures, and adult wizards, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in front of and behind the camera.
Sign up now on Project Casting to be considered for current and future casting calls for the Harry Potter series. Whether you’re an aspiring actor or experienced crew, Project Casting is your gateway to the world of high-profile productions.
Final Thoughts
The Harry Potter television series marks a new chapter in the ever-growing Wizarding World. With a high-caliber production team, a cast of fresh faces, and an opportunity for deeper storytelling, this adaptation is poised to capture the magic of the books in a way no previous version has.
Stay tuned to Project Casting for casting notices, audition opportunities, and behind-the-scenes updates as production begins.
Ready to make movie magic? Check out open roles and apply today at ProjectCasting.com.
Explore more roles and submit your application today at Project Casting. Opportunities like this don’t come around every day.
I’m glad the series aims to stay faithful to the original books—hopefully that means we’ll get more screen time for fan-favorite subplots like S.P.E.W. or Peeves! It’ll be great to see the depth of the Wizarding World finally explored on screen.