The Wizarding World paused collectively on Thursday as HBO Max unveiled the first official key art for its highly anticipated Harry Potter television series. The striking image, featuring newcomer Dominic McLaughlin gazing upward with the franchise’s signature lightning bolt scar, is accompanied by the ominous and exciting tagline: “IT BEGINS.”
The poster confirms a 2027 premiere date, marking the start of what Warner Bros. Discovery promises will be a “decade-long commitment” to the franchise. Filming has been quietly underway since Summer 2025 at the historic Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in the UK—the very same hallowed grounds where the original eight films were produced.
A New Era for the Boy Who Lived
Central to the reveal is the first clear look at Dominic McLaughlin, whose casting has been the subject of intense speculation. Fans immediately noted the uncanny resemblance between McLaughlin and a young Daniel Radcliffe, a similarity that has already endeared the young actor to the fanbase.
“We are delighted to give audiences the opportunity to discover Hogwarts in a whole new way,” an HBO spokesperson stated following the reveal. “This is a faithful adaptation that honors the source material while bringing these incredible adventures to a new generation.”
McLaughlin leads a fresh British cast, including Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley and Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger. The pressure on these young stars is immense, but they have received blessings from the original guard. In a touching development reported earlier this week, Daniel Radcliffe personally wrote to McLaughlin to wish him luck, jokingly noting, “I hope you have the best time, and an even better time than I did.”
Seven Seasons, One Epic Story
The series distinguishes itself from the film franchise by its structure: seven seasons, with each season dedicated entirely to one of J.K. Rowling’s seven novels. This format allows for a depth of storytelling previously impossible in feature films, promising to include fan-favorite subplots and characters like Peeves the Poltergeist and Winky the House Elf.
J.K. Rowling serves as an executive producer, a move Warner Bros. maintains is essential to ensure the series stays true to her original vision.
The Fan Debate: Excitement Meets Skepticism
While the poster has generated millions of impressions within hours, the reaction remains divided. A vocal segment of the fanbase questions the necessity of rebooting the beloved film series so soon after its conclusion. However, the visual of McLaughlin in the iconic round glasses seems to be turning the tide.
“The resemblance is chilling,” one top comment read on X (formerly Twitter). “I wasn’t sure about a reboot, but seeing him? I’m ready to go back to Hogwarts.”
With no original stars returning to reprise their roles, the series represents a complete reset. As the 2027 release approaches, all eyes will remain fixed on Leavesden as the next chapter of magical history is written.