Chris Columbus has admitted that newly surfaced photos from HBO’s forthcoming Harry Potter TV series left him puzzled about the point of re-adapting the books, even as he remains curious to see the project unfold.
Columbus, who helped launch the film era by directing Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, noted that the series is currently filming in the United Kingdom. In the photos, Nick Frost portrays Hagrid, with Columbus pointing out a striking coincidence: the actor is wearing the exact same Hagrid costume his team designed for the films.
“I’ve seen photographs where he’s wearing the identical Hagrid costume we created,” Columbus said. “Part of me thinks, what’s the point? I expected differences, but it’s mostly the same. It’s all going to be the same in a way.” He described the design as flattering, even as he admitted it feels like deja vu.
Despite the sense of familiarity, Columbus said he’s excited to see how HBO will expand the story on a bigger canvas and that he isn’t envious of the project’s scope. “I’m not jealous. It’s time to move on. I’ve always had my issues with the idea of a franchise,” he added, stressing that he’s proud of the first three films he helped bring to life and is looking forward to seeing where the Potter world goes next.
Columbus is currently promoting Netflix’s The Thursday Murder Club, based on Richard Osman’s best-selling books, and Osman hosts The Rest Is Entertainment—the podcast on which Columbus shared his thoughts.
Bottom line for fans: the wizarding world continues to spark discussion, with veterans of the films watching closely as HBO’s adaptation journeys from page to screen. Expect reactions, comparisons, and more updates as filming progresses and more behind-the-scenes details emerge. If you’re hopeful about new interpretations, there’s reason to look forward to seeing how the series handles its familiar, beloved characters in a fresh format.