HBO Announces Inclusive Harry Potter Series Reboot; Jared Harris Opposes, Gary Oldman Jokes About Dumbledore Role
September 24, 2024The upcoming Harry Potter television series is set to consist of seven seasons, with each season dedicated to one of J.K. Rowling's books.
Francesca Gardiner, known for her work on HBO's Succession, will serve as the showrunner, while Mark Mylod will direct multiple episodes.
Filming for the series is expected to begin in spring 2025, with a premiere planned for 2026.
Currently, HBO is actively searching for actors to portray the main characters, including Harry, Hermione, and Ron, with an open casting call for children aged 9 to 11.
The casting announcement emphasizes a commitment to inclusive and diverse practices, welcoming applicants of all backgrounds.
Jared Harris, son of the late Richard Harris who originally played Dumbledore, has publicly opposed the reboot, stating, 'No, thank you,' when asked about reprising the role.
Harris expressed confusion over the need for a reboot, emphasizing that the original films were already fantastic and should be left alone.
The reboot has faced criticism due to J.K. Rowling's controversial views on gender identity, which have sparked significant debate within the Harry Potter community.
Warner Bros. is focusing on reviving popular franchises like Harry Potter, believing there is significant revenue potential.
The series will feature ten episodes, each covering one book from the original Harry Potter series.
Many fans share concerns about the necessity of a reboot, reflecting on the quality of the original films.
In contrast to Harris' views, Gary Oldman, who portrayed Sirius Black, humorously suggested he is of the right age to play Dumbledore in the new series.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources
GameSpot • Sep 24, 2024
Dumbledore Actor's Son Questions Why The Harry Potter Reboot Is Even HappeningVariety • Sep 23, 2024
Dumbledore Actor's Son Questions HBO TV Reboot: 'Why Do It?'