HBO has officially released the first promotional image of its upcoming Harry Potter series, causing a stir among fans and media worldwide. The photo features 11-year-old Scottish actor Dominic McLaughlin in full Hogwarts attire, complete with round glasses and the iconic lightning-shaped scar on his forehead. The image marks the official start of filming at the Leavesden Studios in the United Kingdom. G Business reports this, citing The Guardianon July 14, 2025.
Aidan Monaghan/HBO
The photograph quickly went viral on social media, igniting enthusiastic discussions among longtime fans of J.K. Rowling’s original novels. Many praised the visual faithfulness to the books, particularly noting McLaughlin’s green eyes, a detail central to the literary version of Harry Potter but previously overlooked in the film adaptations starring Daniel Radcliffe. Online comments included, “He finally looks like the book Harry!” and “Please let the eyes stay green!”
HBO previously announced that the new adaptation will strictly follow the seven-book structure of the original series, with one season per novel. The premiere is not expected before 2027, with the series streaming exclusively on Max(formerly HBO Max).
The studio also confirmed the casting of the remaining lead roles:
- Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger
- Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley
The supporting cast includes notable names:
- Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
- Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
- John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
- Janet McTeer as Professor Minerva McGonagall
Dominic McLaughlin was selected after a months-long global casting process, which reportedly involved tens of thousands of hopefuls. Prior to this role, McLaughlin appeared in the upcoming family film Grow (2025), making this his second major screen appearance.
The Guardian, in its July 14 article, described the show’s approach as a “conscious departure from the blockbuster tone of the previous films,” instead emphasizing narrative depth, emotional realism, and a literary tone. The production’s first image reinforces that HBO is aiming for authenticity and emotional fidelity with its new adaptation.
While fans will have to wait until 2027 to see the first full episodes, this initial look has already set a high bar and revived anticipation across generations of viewers.
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Bild von Instagram Dominic McLaughlin