HBO have officially announced that a Harry Potter television series to span a total of ten years in the making. This is to many Harry Potter fans, a big win in keeping the legacy of the story alive. However, how will the series differ from the original film series. Also, will Harry Potter fans want to watch the series considering they are now in their thirties, and some forties? Another question that looms, will original cast members play roles within the series, and who will play the new Harry Potter?
As per a recent publication by Variety, “We are delighted to give audiences the opportunity to discover Hogwarts in a whole new way,” said Casey Bloys, chairman and CEO of HBO & Max Content. “Harry Potter is a cultural phenomenon and it is clear there is such an enduring love and thirst for the Wizarding World. In partnership with Warner Bros. Television and J.K. Rowling, this new Max Original series will dive deep into each of the iconic books that fans have continued to enjoy for all of these years.”
HBO Max will produce the new series in association with Brontë Film and TV, and Warner Bros. Television. Rowling (herself) will executive produce along with Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts. David Heyman (another film series key player) is currently in talks to executive produce.
“Max’s commitment to preserving the integrity of my books is important to me, and I’m looking forward to being part of this new adaptation which will allow for a degree of depth and detail only afforded by a long form television series,” said Rowling, who is delighted to be back in the caldron mix.
The substantial announcement brings an end to years of speculation on whether or not the Wizarding World of Harry Potter would make the transition to TV – much like every other television franchise. It’s good to note that Lord of the Rings, which trolled into movie theaters at the same time as Potter in 2001, also have a television series. In 2021 (ahead of Discovery’s acquisition of WarnerMedia) Warner’s were looking to develop a “Harry Potter” show.
The franchise has proven incredibly popular across a wide range of media. The first book in the series, “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (or “Sorcerer’s Stone” in the U.S.) was originally published in 1997. The final book, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” debuted in 2007.
In addition to the books, each of which was a bestseller, there have been eight “Harry Potter” films to date, which have collectively grossed more than $7.7 billion at the global box office. There is also the “Fantastic Beasts” film franchise, theme park attractions, toys, and games, including the recently launched video game “Hogwarts Legacy.” There is also the hit Broadway show “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” which serves a sequel to the book series.
Who will play Harry Potter? Much like the original film series, it is almost certain that an unknown actor will be selected to portray the title role. But aside from Potter himself, actors such as Matt Smith (Doctor Who) were cited to play Lucius Malfoy.
