HBO’s highly anticipated Harry Potter series has officially cast its three leads: Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. This talented trio will take on iconic roles in a TV adaptation that is set to span at least a decade, similar to the successes of the original film trilogy featuring Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint.
Showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod expressed their excitement about the casting, stating, “After an extraordinary search led by casting directors Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann, we are delighted to announce we have found our Harry, Hermione, and Ron. The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen.” They also extended their appreciation to the tens of thousands of children who auditioned, noting that approximately 32,000 aspiring young actors tried out for these coveted roles.
McLaughlin, Stanton, and Stout are mostly newcomers to television. McLaughlin will be seen in the upcoming BBC action-adventure series Gifted, while Stanton has graced the stage as Matilda in Matilda The Musical in London’s West End.
The casting process for these pivotal roles has been extensive, following an open call that began months ago. This search specifically targeted children aged nine to 11 as of April 2025, with a commitment to inclusive and diverse casting. The initial audition requirements included submitting two videos: one showcasing storytelling ability and another discussing a close relationship with a family member, friend, or pet.
Adult roles in the series have also been announced, featuring notable actors. Paapa Essiedu will portray Professor Snape, John Lithgow as Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, and Nick Frost as Hagrid.
Described as a “faithful adaptation” of J.K. Rowling’s beloved books, the series aims to honor the original storyline while introducing it to a new generation of viewers. It will be produced under the rebranded HBO Max and features a team of prominent producers and writers dedicated to bringing this iconic universe back to life.
Fans can look forward to the series as production is set to begin this summer at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, with the first season expected to premiere in 2026. This marks an exciting new chapter for Harry Potter enthusiasts, signaling a fresh and dynamic take on the well-loved saga.