If Percy Jackson fans had reason to rejoice now that the TV series adaptation is coming as early as next year, it’s time for Potterheads to do the same as well. HBO’s streaming service that has rebranded to Max confirms that a Harry Potter series reboot is in the works. The rumors turned out to be true as more details were released during an investor presentation. In this article, we’ll be exploring the Harry Potter series reboot coming to HBO Max soon, including the possible cast members and netizens’ reactions. Stay with us!
What we know about the Harry Potter series reboot so far
According to HBO Max’s official press release, fans of the franchise have a lot to be excited about. They are committed to staying true and authentic to the original books from J.K. Rowling. Furthermore, the reboot aims to introduce a new set of faces to take on the roles of Harry Potter and other iconic characters.
Your Hogwarts letter is here.
Max has ordered the first ever #HarryPotter scripted television series, a faithful adaptation of the iconic books. #StreamOnMax pic.twitter.com/3CgEHLYhch
— Max (@StreamOnMax) April 12, 2023
Casey Bloys, CEO and chairman of HBO & Max Content, revealed that the series will give “audiences the opportunity to discover Hogwarts in a whole new way”. With that being said, it’s unlikely they will include any of the cast members from the film series.
READ MORE: Harry Potter Series in the works: a retelling of the Original Storyline with J.K. Rowling’s Involvement – Here’s What We Know
- As of writing, the Harry Potter series does not have an official title yet. However, each season is said to focus on one book. This means that audiences are most likely getting seven books with lengthy episodes.
- On the other hand, HBO & Max can go down the same route as the movies. In the Harry Potter movies, they split the seventh and final book into two parts.
J.K. Rowling will be the executive producer of the series that will faithfully adapt the seven books of the Harry Potter saga! pic.twitter.com/JMJmMExUML
— Written by J.K. Rowling (@rowlingmore) April 12, 2023
- J.K. Rowling has also been confirmed as an executive producer of the series. Joining her are Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts while David Heyman is still in talks of being one of the other executive producers.
- If you are unfamiliar with David Heyman, he managed to secure the rights to the Harry Potter books back in 1999. Since then, he produced all eight films so it would only be right if he also had a part in the development of the upcoming series.
Possible cast members
Because the Harry Potter series is still in early development by HBO Max, there are no final cast members yet. It will also be tough trying to introduce a new set of cast members to the beloved franchise. The original movies we all grew up with featured Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, and other talented actors who breathed life into J.K. Rowling’s creations.
It’s a big risk for the team working on the series. Nonetheless, introducing a new set of cast members will help re-introduce Harry Potter to mainstream media and pop culture. A new cast also helps pave the way for a new generation of the Harry Potter fandom.
READ MORE: Harry Potter: Magic Awakened – Western Release date + Latest updates
Some netizens have also started fan casting ever since rumors started about the series. Here are some of our favorite fan casts for the Harry Potter series:
- Benedict Cumberbatch as Voldemort
- Nick Frost as Hagrid
- Adam Driver as Severus Snape
- Tom Hiddleston as Sirius Black
- Tilda Swinton as Minerva McGonagall
- Ewan McGregor as Gilderoy Lockhart
Of course, it will be hard to find the perfect actors to play the Golden Trio. It might be better for the creators to look for up and coming young actors to play them like in the movies. By doing so, the three actors can grow up with the series like how Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint did in the eight movies.
For now, that will be one of the ultimate challenges for whoever’s in charge of casting in the Harry Potter series reboot.
Netizens react to the Harry Potter series reboot
A lot of reactions surrounding the news were positive. However, there have also been negative reactions following the announcement, mainly because of J.K. Rowling’s recent controversies.
Harry Potter fans vow to boycott HBO TV series based on the books over JK Rowling's views on trans debate and gender identity https://t.co/HkSph2372H pic.twitter.com/qSpyaTFJ0d
— Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) April 10, 2023
Ever since J.K. Rowling has been vocal on her being anti trans, she has received criticisms and backlash from the large community of Harry Potter fans who grew up with her books. The announcement also opened up conversations about Rowling alluding to racism and slavery in her books.
The writers on the HBO Harry Potter series when they realize that the new Hermione actress is going to be black and they need to find a way to justify her being called a "mudblood" and being laughed at for being anti-slavery: pic.twitter.com/Tj6wBhsP3g
— manband20 (@manband20) April 12, 2023
There are already some calling for a total boycott of the series. Much like what happened with Hogwarts Legacy, all of this is stemming from the fact that Rowling has been vocal about her being anti trans. One of the most recent controversies including the author was when she made even more anti trans comments while appearing on a podcast.
Meanwhile, Casey Bloys was asked about Rowling’s recent controversies. Unfortunately, Bloys deflected the question and told the press that it was “not something we’re getting into”. He then proceeded to say that the Harry Potter is all about “love and self-acceptance,” and that they will focus on what’s on the screen.
READ MORE: Should you Boycott Hogwarts Legacy?
What do you think about the Harry Potter series currently in development? Are you going to be tuning in once the first episode airs? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! For more content, stay with us, here at Spiel Times.
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