The world of Harry Potter is preparing for a return to television, with HBO scheduling the premiere of its new series for December 25, 2026.
The production will introduce a new cast to the story of the young wizard and his years at Hogwarts, the fictional school of witchcraft and wizardry. HBO has released the series’ first official poster, offering an early glimpse of the upcoming adaptation.
At its center is Dominic McLaughlin, who takes on the role of Harry Potter. The image features a reflection of Hogwarts Castle in the young actor’s eye, accompanied by the familiar phrase, “The Boy Who Lived.”
The first season will consist of eight episodes and adapt J.K. Rowling’s first book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
A new cast takes on familiar characters
McLaughlin will lead the series alongside Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, forming a new version of the story’s central trio.
The adult cast includes several established actors. John Lithgow will play Albus Dumbledore, Paapa Essiedu will portray Severus Snape, and Nick Frost will take on the role of Rubeus Hagrid.
When and where to watch
The series is scheduled to debut on December 25, 2026, through HBO and Max.
The adaptation aims to bring the Hogwarts story to a new generation of viewers while reconnecting longtime fans with the characters and setting that became internationally popular through Rowling’s books and the film franchise.
JB Perrette, head of streaming at Warner Bros. Discovery, has described the production as the “streaming event of the decade.”






