HBO’s Harry Potter TV Series: What We Know So Far

The wizarding world is returning in a big way—HBO and Max will bring Harry Potter back as a TV series in 2026! With fresh casting, expanded stories, and some surprises along the way, here’s everything we know so far about this magical reboot that fans can’t stop buzzing about.

What is the Series About?

The Harry Potter TV series promises to take fans deeper into the world of Hogwarts with a fresh approach that remains true to the original books. According to Casey Bloys, Chairman and CEO of HBO & Max Content, the series aims to be a “faithful adaptation” of each of J.K. Rowling’s beloved novels. Early reports suggest that each season will focus on one book, creating space to explore more details from J.K. Rowling’s richly layered universe than the films could. However, Casey Bloys has hinted at a longer plan, mentioning a 10-year run, which might mean the series could go beyond a strict “one season, one book” format. Channing Dungey, Chairman and CEO of Warner Bros, also confirmed that the Harry Potter series is going to be more in-depth than a two-hour film. 

Casey Bloys also confirmed that Fantastic Beasts won’t be incorporated, allowing the series to remain solely focused on Harry Potter’s journey. 

Who is in the Crew?

Francesca Gardiner has officially taken the reins as showrunner for the Harry Potter TV series. Known for her role as a consulting producer on Succession Seasons 3 and 4, Francesca Gardiner’s storytelling expertise and knack for creating complex characters made her a standout choice. She beat out two other finalists, Tom Moran (The Sandman) and Kathleen Jordan (Teenage Bounty Hunters), to helm this highly anticipated adaptation. Alongside Francesca Gardiner, Succession veteran Mark Mylod is also joining the Harry Potter TV series team, bringing his directorial expertise to multiple episodes while serving as an executive producer. 

J.K. Rowling will be involved in the new Harry Potter TV series. As the original author, she holds creative control over adaptations of her work and will serve as an executive producer, along with Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts. J.K. Rowling’s production company, Brontë Film and TV, is collaborating with Warner Bros. Television to bring this adaptation to life.

Where to Watch the Series?

The Harry Potter series will premiere as an HBO Original, instead of a Max original. This marks a shift in Warner Bros. Discovery’s strategy, as previously Max was expected to host these high-budget series exclusively. However, with Harry Potter and other upcoming projects like Welcome to Derry, Warner Bros. Discovery is now choosing a dual-release approach, reaching both traditional cable and streaming audiences.

Who’s in the Cast?

The Harry Potter TV series is bringing in a whole new cast for the iconic trio—Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Warner Bros. TV has opened casting calls on the hunt for young actors from the UK and Ireland in September, starting with kids around 11 or 12 to match the ages in the first couple of books. Warner Bros. might aim to follow the characters’ natural growth throughout the storyline with this approach, much like the original Harry Potter films. 

Additionally, there’s been some buzz about potential cameos from original Harry Potter stars in the new series, though nothing’s set in stone. Gary Oldman recently hinted at being open to returning, even suggesting he’d consider stepping into the role of Dumbledore if given the chance. However, he noted that no one from the team has reached out to him yet. As for Daniel Radcliffe, who is rooted in audiences’ minds as Harry Potter, he’s expressed that he’s happy to stay on the sidelines. Daniel Radcliffe told E! News that he thinks a “clean break” is wise and looks forward to watching as a fan. 

When Will the Harry Potter Series Start Filming?

The Harry Potter TV series has been in development for a few years. Now, it looks like the series is gearing up to start production, as casting notes indicate they’re seeking actors between the ages of 9 and 11 by April 2025—a possible signal that filming could kick off around that time.

When Can We Expect to Watch the Series?

The Harry Potter series is slated for release in late 2026 or early 2027, as stated by Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav and HBO’s Casey Bloys. Initial excitement has driven ongoing collaboration between Warner Bros. and J.K. Rowling’s team, and while the March casting call suggests progress, it may not mark the exact start of production. CEO David Zaslav and team are enthusiastic about bringing the series to audiences, hoping to revitalize the franchise sooner rather than later.

Any Other Upcoming Harry Potter Related Projects?

It looks like Warner Bros. Discovery is ready to work a little more magic beyond just the Harry Potter series. Warner Bros. Discovery is open to expanding the Harry Potter universe with additional projects on Max. While some developments require J.K. Rowling’s approval, other areas are unrestricted, giving Warner Bros. Discovery flexibility to explore various ideas within the Wizarding World. CEO David Zaslav has emphasized the importance of franchises, with Harry Potter identified as a major focus. There’s also potential for more than one writer to contribute, allowing Max to consider multiple ideas for future projects related to the Harry Potter IP. 

To all the wizards and muggles, a new era at Hogwarts is calling! It won’t be too long—just one or two more “Back to Hogwarts” away from diving into fresh magic, mysteries, and adventures!