It’s finally been confirmed: the classic Harry Potter books are being adapted as a brand-new series. The announcement comes as part of a new lineup of projects as HBO Max becomes rebranded as Max.
“A new original series,” teases the official video announcement. The video continues to play the classic theme music associated with the Harry Potter film franchise. Soon enough, a swarm of candles zoom past the screen, forming a familiar logo that reads simply: “HARRY POTTER.” The “Max Original” logo can be seen above it.
Here’s the teaser:
Despite the similarities, however, this series will be a completely new adaptation of the original books. This means the classic stories will be told in a more faithful manner, as a “decade-long one,” with an all-new cast. Furthermore, author J.K. Rowling is attached to executive produce the series. As shared by Warner Bros Discovery CEO David Zaslav via Deadline:
“My wife and I, we read (the Harry Potter books) to each of our three kids….It’s really moving, for ten consecutive years, people will see Harry Potter on HBO; I mean it’s really something.”
Of course, Zaslav is referring to Max in this statement rather than “HBO,” but we’re all getting used to the new name. In a similar statement, Casey Bloys, Chairman and CEO, HBO & Max Content, had the following to share:
“We are delighted to give audiences the opportunity to discover Hogwarts in a whole new way,” said Bloys. “Harry Potter is a cultural phenomenon and it is clear there is such an enduring love and thirst for the Wizarding World. In partnership with Warner Bros. Television and J.K. Rowling, this new Max Original series will dive deep into each of the iconic books that fans have continued to enjoy for all of these years.”
Author J.K. Rowling offered her own statement:
“Max’s commitment to preserving the integrity of my books is important to me, and I’m looking forward to being part of this new adaptation which will allow for a degree of depth and detail only afforded by a long form television series.”
The series will be produced by Max in association with Brontë Film and TV, and Warner Bros. Television. Executive produced by J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, and Ruth Kenley-Letts. David Heyman is currently in talks to executive produce. Stay tuned to ScreenGeek for additional updates on the new Harry Potter series as we have them.