The highly anticipated HBO "Harry Potter" television series has officially begun production, and the first image of Dominic McLaughlin as the boy wizard has been revealed. The series, set to premiere in 2027 on HBO and HBO Max, promises a faithful adaptation of J.K. Rowling's beloved books, bringing the magic to a new generation.
The first look image showcases Dominic McLaughlin in the iconic Hogwarts uniform, complete with round-rimmed glasses and the signature lightning bolt scar. The young actor's portrayal has already garnered positive reactions from fans, with many noting his resemblance to Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter in the original films.
McLaughlin is joined by Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, completing the core trio. These newcomers were selected after an extensive search that involved over 30,000 young actors auditioning for the coveted roles. Showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod expressed their delight in finding the perfect Harry, Hermione, and Ron, praising the talent of the young actors.
In addition to the main trio, HBO has announced several other cast members. The cast includes: * John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore * Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall * Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape * Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid * Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell * Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch * Katherine Parkinson as Molly Weasley * Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy * Johnny Flynn as Lucius Malfoy * Leo Earley as Seamus Finnigan * Alessia Leoni as Parvati Patil * Sienna Moosah as Lavender Brown * Bel Powley as Petunia Dursley * Daniel Rigby as Vernon Dursley * Bertie Carvel as Cornelius Fudge * Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom * Amos Kitson as Dudley Dursley * Louise Brealey as Madam Rolanda Hooch * Anton Lesser as Garrick Ollivander
The series has also secured a team of experienced professionals behind the camera. Adriano Goldman will serve as the director of photography, with Cate Hall as the hair and makeup designer. Paul Herbert will be the stunt coordinator, Mark Holt the SFX supervisor, Mara LePere-Schloop the production designer, and Naomi Moore the set decorator. The creature effects will be designed by John Nolan, while Alexis Wajsbrot and Dom Sidoli will oversee the VFX as supervisor and producer, respectively. Holly Waddington was previously announced as the costume designer.
Filming has commenced at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in the UK. Francesca Gardiner will write and executive produce the series, reuniting with her "Succession" colleague Mark Mylod, who will also executive produce and direct multiple episodes.
The HBO "Harry Potter" series aims to capture the hearts of a new generation of fans while remaining true to the spirit of the books. With a talented cast and crew, the series promises to be a magical journey for viewers old and new.
