Why Warner Bros is betting big on the new Harry Potter show

Warner Bros Discovery says Harry Potter series will redefine streaming as production begins and anticipation builds

Warner Bros Discovery has set expectations sky high for its upcoming Harry Potter television series, with executives openly framing the project as a defining moment for modern streaming. Although the show is still more than a year away from reaching audiences, confidence inside the company appears unshakeable as filming gets underway and early creative progress continues to impress.

The new Harry Potter series will adapt J K Rowling’s bestselling novels into a long form television project planned to run for more than seven seasons. This approach is designed to allow the story to unfold with greater depth and detail than was possible in the original films. Executives believe the format will give writers and producers the space to explore characters, subplots and world building that fans of the books have long wanted to see brought fully to life.

JB Perrette, president of global streaming and games at Warner Bros Discovery, recently visited Leavesden Studios near London, where production is currently taking place. He described being struck by the scale and craftsmanship of the sets and the overall ambition of the project. According to Perrette, the level of detail rivals major theatrical productions, reinforcing the company’s belief that the series can feel both cinematic and expansive while remaining rooted in episodic storytelling.

The Harry Potter franchise remains one of the most recognisable and commercially powerful properties in entertainment history. Warner Bros Discovery is counting on that enduring appeal as it continues to expand HBO Max into new international markets, including a major push across Europe. Internally, the series is seen as a cornerstone title that can anchor subscriber growth and generate sustained engagement over many years.

Company leaders have also pointed to the timing of the release as particularly important. As Warner Bros Discovery navigates corporate changes and broader industry uncertainty, the Harry Potter series represents a clear long term vision. Executives have suggested that the show, alongside international platform launches, has given teams a renewed sense of momentum and purpose.

While casting details and creative specifics remain tightly guarded, the promise of a faithful and comprehensive adaptation has already sparked intense interest among fans. Expectations are undeniably high, and comparisons to the original films are inevitable. Even so, Warner Bros Discovery appears confident that the scale, care and investment behind the series will justify the hype and set a new benchmark for premium television.