As production begins for theHarry PotterTV remake, HBO has revealed a first look at its leading character. Actor Dominic McLaughlin plays the titular Harry Potter in the upcoming TV series, which is expected to premiere its first season on HBO Max in 2027. McLaughlin will be joined by Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley.
Along with the news that production is underway,HBO has provided a behind-the-scenes image of McLaughlin in full costume as Harry Potter. The actor is seen with the familiar round glasses and Hogwarts school uniform, as well as untidy hair, just as theHarry Potterbooks describe. See the image below:
What HBO’s First-Look Image Means For The Harry Potter Remake
Production Is Finally Taking Off
This year has been full ofcasting announcements for theHarry PotterTV show, but HBO’s image of McLaughlin as the Boy Who Lived is the first real look at how this project is progressing. With the lead character’s appearance fully fleshed out,work can begin in earnest, allowing HBO to meet its 2027 release window for season 1.
HBO’s image was also accompanied by further announcements regarding theHarry PotterTV show, including the official casting for characters such as Neville Longbottom (Rory Kinnear), Dudley Dursley (Amos Kitson), Madam Hooch (Louise Brealey), and Garrick Ollivander (Anton Lesser). Overall, this news makes it evident thatHBO’sHarry Potterremakeis far closer to becoming an on-screen reality.
Our Take On HBO’s New Harry Potter
Dominic McLaughlin Certainly Looks The Part
The first look at McLaughlin as Harry Potter leaves little doubt that this new actor looks the part. For decades, we have associated Daniel Radcliffe with the role, making it difficult to imagine anyone else stepping in. However, it’s comforting to see that McLaughlin captures that similar sparkle that we grew used to with theHarry Pottermovies' original cast.
It’s interesting to note that HBO diverted somewhat from the costume we know and love. The Hogwarts school uniform is slightly different, since McLaughlin is seen wearing a reddish sweater under his black robes (matching the Gryffindor colors). Additionally, it appears that Harry’s scar has been relocated from its central position on the character’s forehead to a position off to the side.
Regardless, it’s immediately apparent who this character is meant to be. It shouldn’t take long after theHarry PotterTV show premieres in 2027 to fully embrace this version of the Boy Who Lived. Of course, how this translates over to other characters remains to be seen.
