In a magical turn of events sure to ignite global excitement, Harry Potter is officially returning to the screen—this time as a high-stakes, decade-long HBO series. Warner Bros. Discovery has confirmed that production for the highly anticipated reboot will commence in summer 2025 at the iconic Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in Watford, Hertfordshire, famously home to much of the original Harry Potter film production—and more recently, the global phenomenon Barbie (2023).
This ambitious series promises a “faithful adaptation” of J.K. Rowling’s beloved book series, introducing a completely new cast while staying true to the essence of the original novels. It’s a bold move that aims to enchant both loyal fans and a whole new generation of viewers across the globe.
A Decade of Magic in the Making
Originally announced in 2023, the HBO Max original series is set to unfold over the next ten years, with each season focusing on one of Rowling’s seven novels. This pacing allows for a deeper, richer exploration of the Wizarding World—something many fans felt was missing from the fast-paced theatrical releases.
“Wands at the ready,” posted Max, Warner Bros.' streaming service, on social platform X. “The upcoming HBO Original Series, #HarryPotter, will be filming at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden with production beginning in Summer 2025 and coming to Max.”
While the beloved original film trilogy starred Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, the upcoming adaptation will feature a fresh ensemble of young actors. According to HBO, more than 32,000 children have auditioned for the lead roles of Harry, Hermione, and Ron since casting began in September 2024. The production team is currently reviewing up to 1,000 audition tapes per day in a meticulous selection process aimed at finding the perfect trio to embody the legendary characters.
Staying True to the Source
From the very start, Warner Bros. and Max have emphasized the series' commitment to honoring the original source material. Each season will stay “authentic to the original books,” preserving the magical elements, emotional depth, and intricate storytelling that made Rowling’s work a cultural touchstone. The showrunners have made it clear: this isn’t a reimagining—it’s a meticulous re-telling.
“The series will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom,” said Max in their initial announcement. “It will be full of the fantastic detail, much-loved characters, and dramatic locations that Harry Potter
While the original films will always remain a cherished part of the franchise and continue to be available to stream worldwide, this new chapter is expected to delve deeper into the narrative nuances that were trimmed or omitted from the movies.
Leavesden: A Magical Homecoming
Returning to Leavesden Studios is both a symbolic and practical choice. The studio lot is practically synonymous with the Wizarding World, having served as the production hub for all eight Harry Potter films between 2001 and 2011. Its sprawling sets, including a reconstructed Hogwarts Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Forbidden Forest, still draw thousands of visitors annually through the Harry Potter Studio Tour.
Leavesden also recently made headlines as the primary filming location for Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, which smashed box office records in 2023. Its state-of-the-art facilities and deeply entrenched cinematic magic make it the ideal location for such a high-stakes project.
A Global Cultural Moment
Since the original book’s publication in 1997, Harry Potter has evolved into one of the most beloved and lucrative franchises in entertainment history. With over 600 million copies sold worldwide and a film series that grossed over $7 billion, the Wizarding World remains a cultural juggernaut.
This HBO reboot signals not just a revival but a reinvention. By introducing the story to a new generation while staying loyal to the source, Warner Bros. is betting big on nostalgia, timeless storytelling, and modern streaming trends. Industry insiders are already predicting that this will become one of the most-watched and talked-about series of the decade.
As fans eagerly await casting announcements and sneak peeks, one thing is clear: the magic is far from over. And for those who grew up with Harry and for those just discovering him now, this new chapter promises to be spellbinding.
Stay tuned—summer 2025 is about to be magical.
