First Look at HBO's 'Harry Potter' Reboot Has the Internet Completely Divided
HBO just released the first look of the new Harry Potter television series - and fans are completely split.
After the network unveiled the first official image from the highly-anticipated series on Instagram, devoted fans took to the comment section to share their excitement for the new adaptation.
"Okay wait. This kid even looks like the cover art for the books more than Daniel [Radcliffe]. Good stuff." wrote one commenter. "HE IS PERFECT! ⚡️" added another.
Some fans, however, had a more negative reaction to the new series, claiming no actor could replace the iconic Daniel Radcliffe, who starred as Potter in the film franchise.
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"This photo confirms the reboot is so unnecessary. It's basically the same." said one user. "There is just one Harry to me, sorry. This series is so unnecessary." wrote another.
Others felt indifferent about the reboot - but expressed disinterest in supporting Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling after she's come under fire for her transphobic views. Rowling is set to serve as an executive producer on the HBO series.
"Won't support JKR but I hope the kids do well." commented one fan. "I just wish the money from this wouldn't be used by this evil woman." wrote another.
Despite the mixed reactions, it seems like most fans are in agreement that the new Harry Potter actor, Dominic McLaughlin, is the spitting image of his character. Some commenters are even calling on HBO and Warner Bros. to protect McLaughlin and the other child actors from the onslaught of hate when the controversial series eventually goes to air.
Production on the new HBO Original series is currently underway at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in the U.K., the same studio that housed much of the original film franchise. The series is set to debut in 2027 on HBO and HBO Max.
HBO has previously described the reboot as a "faithful adaptation" of Rowling's seven Harry Potter books, with each season expected to cover one installment in the series. The show will exist independently from the original film franchise.
First Look at HBO's 'Harry Potter' Reboot Has the Internet Completely Divided first appeared on Parade on Jul 14, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 14, 2025, where it first appeared.
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