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Harry Potter HBO series casts James and Lily Potter as Charlie Weasley
HBO's Harry Potter series casts James and Lily Potter with Charlie Weasley's screen debut.
In brief
HBO's Harry Potter series casts James and Lily Potter with Charlie Weasley's screen debut. HBO's Harry Potter series casts James and Lily Potter and Charlie Weasley in its first season. Originally reported by Dailymail.
HBO casts James and Lily Potter
HBO has cast Jasper Talbot and Hannah Chinn as James and Lily Potter for Season 1 of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
Charlie Weasley makes screen debut
Harry Gilby will play Charlie Weasley, making his character screen debut in the series.
Season 1 release date
Season 1 of the series will air on HBO Max on December 25, 2026.
Series based on J.K. Rowling books
The series is written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner based on J.K. Rowling's books.
Key cast members
Dominic McLaughlin plays Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton is Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout is Ron Weasley.
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
John Lithgow has taken on the role of Albus Dumbledore in the series.
Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
Paapa Essiedu plays Severus Snape, facing death threats from critics.
Controversy around casting
The series has faced controversy from anti-JK Rowling activists and critics over transgender issues.
Filming schedule
Filming for Season 2 is expected to start this autumn after Season 1's completion.
Rowling's involvement
J.K. Rowling serves as an executive producer on HBO's show and has praised the scripts.
Theatrical vs. TV adaptation
The series is reported to be a more faithful adaptation than the original cinematic incarnations.
Casting controversies
The series has faced reports of thefts in the prop room and bullying accusations on set.
Bullying incidents
Two 12-year-old extras were spotted fighting on set, prompting warnings from HBO.
Death threats to Paapa Essiedu
Paapa Essiedu has faced death threats from trolls who believe a black man should not play a fictional wizard.
HBO Max launch event
The new generation of Harry Potter stars made an appearance at the HBO Max launch event in London.
Boycott threats
Many former Potterheads have vowed to boycott the programme due to controversy surrounding Rowling's comments.
Release date
The series is scheduled to premiere on Christmas Day, 2026, on HBO Max.
At a glance
HBO's Harry Potter series casts James and Lily Potter and Charlie Weasley in its first season.
