HBO has officially announced the first wave of casting for its highly anticipated ‘Harry Potter‘ television series, set to debut in 2026.

This new adaptation aims to provide a more in-depth exploration of J.K. Rowling’s beloved novels, with each season dedicated to a single book, PTI reported.

Leading the cast, acclaimed actor John Lithgow will portray the wise and enigmatic Albus Dumbledore. Joining him is Paapa Essiedu as the complex Severus Snape, Nick Frost as the beloved half-giant Rubeus Hagrid, and Janet McTeer as the stern yet caring Professor Minerva McGonagall. Additional cast members include Luke Thallon as Professor Quirinus Quirrell and Paul Whitehouse as the cantankerous caretaker Argus Filch. ​

The series will be helmed by showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner, known for her work on ‘Killing Eve’ and ‘His Dark Materials.’ Mark Mylod, recognized for directing episodes of ‘Succession,’ will direct several episodes and serve as an executive producer. J.K. Rowling will also be involved as an executive producer, ensuring the series remains faithful to the original material. ​

Filming is scheduled to commence in the summer of 2025 at the original movie location in Leavesden, UK. Casting for the iconic trio—Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley—is still underway, with announcements expected in the coming months. ​

This new adaptation promises to delve deeper into the rich world of Hogwarts and its inhabitants, offering fans a fresh perspective on the magical saga.