'Harry Potter' Star Dominic McLaughlin Reflects on Donning the Iconic Costume for HBO Series

Dominic McLaughlin, the actor set to portray Harry Potter in HBO's highly anticipated series adaptation, has shared his initial reaction to stepping into the shoes – and robes – of the beloved wizard. The series, slated for a 2027 premiere on HBO and HBO Max, is currently in production in the U.K.

'Surreal' Experience for Longtime Fan

Speaking to BBC News while promoting his new film "Grow," where he stars alongside Nick Frost (who appears as Hagrid in the HBO "Harry Potter" series), McLaughlin described the experience as "a bit surreal to be honest, because I was always a huge 'Harry Potter' fan when I was younger." He added, "And it was like the dream role, of course, so I'm thrilled to be able to be doing it."

McLaughlin's casting, alongside Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, followed an extensive search that saw over 30,000 actors audition for the roles last fall. HBO offered a sneak peek of McLaughlin in costume last month, showcasing the character's signature scar, round glasses, and Hogwarts robes. A first look at Frost as Hagrid was released shortly after.

A New Chapter for a Beloved Franchise

The HBO series aims to adapt J.K. Rowling's seven "Harry Potter" books, with each season focusing on one book. This format allows for a more detailed and nuanced exploration of the source material compared to the original film adaptations. The cast also includes John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, and Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, among others.

Expert Analysis: Remaking a Cultural Phenomenon

"Rebooting such a globally recognized and cherished franchise comes with immense pressure," notes Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of film studies at the University of Southern California, specializing in adaptation theory. "The success of the HBO series hinges on striking a delicate balance between honoring the source material and offering a fresh perspective that resonates with both longtime fans and new audiences. The casting choices, particularly McLaughlin as Harry, will be under intense scrutiny. The extended format of a series allows for deeper character development and exploration of subplots, which could be a significant advantage over the films."

The Legacy of Harry Potter

The "Harry Potter" franchise, encompassing books, films, theme parks, and merchandise, has generated billions of dollars and left an undeniable mark on popular culture. The original film series, produced by Warner Bros., was a massive success, launching the careers of its young stars and captivating audiences worldwide. However, the films also faced criticism for omitting certain details and storylines from the books.

The decision to adapt the series for television reflects a growing trend in Hollywood, where established intellectual property is being reimagined for streaming platforms. This allows for longer-form storytelling and the potential to reach a broader audience. The success of series like "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power" on Amazon Prime Video and "House of the Dragon" on HBO demonstrates the appetite for high-budget fantasy adaptations.

The Rowling Factor

J.K. Rowling's continued involvement as an executive producer is both a point of reassurance for some fans and a source of controversy for others, given her past statements on transgender issues. Her presence ensures fidelity to the original vision, but also presents a challenge for HBO in navigating the complex social and political landscape. "Rowling's involvement is a double-edged sword," observes media analyst Paul Dergarabedian of Comscore. "On one hand, it guarantees a certain level of authenticity and fan engagement. On the other, it forces HBO to address the ongoing debates surrounding her views, which could potentially impact the series' reception."

Looking Ahead

Francesca Gardiner ("His Dark Materials," "Killing Eve") serves as writer and showrunner, with Mark Mylod ("Succession") directing. Gardiner and Mylod are executive producing alongside Rowling, Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman of Heyday Films. The "Harry Potter" series is being made by HBO in association with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television. Production is expected to continue through spring 2026, building anticipation for the 2027 premiere. The series promises to be a significant event in the television landscape, reigniting the magic of "Harry Potter" for a new generation.

Series Premiere: 2027 Platform: HBO and HBO Max Showrunner: Francesca Gardiner Executive Producers: J.K. Rowling, Francesca Gardiner, Mark Mylod, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts, David Heyman