HBO's ‘Harry Potter’ series begins production, sets 2027 release and reveals first look at new cast

Production has officially begun on HBO’s highly anticipated “Harry Potter” television series, marking a major return to J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world nearly 14 years after the final film in the original franchise hit theatres. Filming is currently underway at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in the U.K., with the series slated for release in 2027 on HBO Max.

The first official image from the series features Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, donning the character’s familiar round glasses and Hogwarts school robes. He will star alongside Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. The young cast members were selected from over 30,000 hopefuls who responded to a global casting call last year.

Additional casting announcements revealed Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom, Amos Kitson as Dudley Dursley, and Louise Brealey as Madam Hooch. Anton Lesser has been tapped to play wandmaker Garrick Ollivander. Veteran actors John Lithgow and Janet McTeer will portray Albus Dumbledore and Professor McGonagall, respectively, while Paapa Essiedu will take on the role of Severus Snape. Nick Frost has been cast as Hagrid. Other key roles include Katherine Parkinson as Molly Weasley, Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy, and Johnny Flynn as Lucius Malfoy.

Each season of the show will adapt one of the seven Harry Potter books, with Season 1 expected to complete filming by spring 2026. A second season will follow after a brief production hiatus.

Francesca Gardiner, known for her work on “His Dark Materials,” will serve as showrunner and lead writer. “Succession” director Mark Mylod is also on board to direct multiple episodes and executive produce. The production is a collaboration between HBO, Warner Bros. Television, and Brontë Film and TV, with Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts, and David Heyman serving as executive producers.

Behind the scenes, the creative team includes costume designer Holly Waddington, cinematographer Adriano Goldman, hair and makeup designer Cate Hall, and stunt coordinator Paul Herbert. The visual and practical effects will be overseen by John Nolan and Alexis Wajsbrot, respectively.