Hogwarts is calling, so grab your wand and brush your broomstick. HBO has released the first trailer for the upcoming Harry Potter series, inviting viewers to return to the magical world with a new take on the iconic series. According to the network, season 1 is scheduled to premiere on Christmas Day 2026.
The trailer begins with Harry living in a cupboard room under the Dursleys’ stairs. Until he receives his acceptance letter to Hogwarts, he is bullied by his cousin Dudley, told by Aunt Petunia that he is not special, and given a painful haircut. The trailer shows Hagrid explaining the wizarding world to Harry and teasing him with information about his deceased parents. Harry piles his luggage onto the trolley and rushes through Gateway 9 3/4 to board the Hogwarts Express.
On the train, I saw Ron hugging his mother goodbye. They sit on the train with Hermione, and Ron asks her, “Are you really Harry Potter?” There’s also a montage of glimpses of the trio exploring Hogwarts, Harry untying the Quidditch broomstick, Dumbledore, Snape, Draco Malfoy, Mr. Ollivander, the Sorting Hat, and more.
Dominic McLaughlin plays young Harry Potter, co-starring Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley and Arabella Staunton as Hermione Granger. Together they overcome the challenges of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, forge a close friendship, and face the growing threat of Lord Voldemort.
The ensemble includes John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Papa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, and Arga Also included are Paul Whitehouse as Filch, Luke Tallon as Quirinus Quirrell, Rox Pratt as Draco Malfoy, Bel Powley as Petunia, and Daniel Rigby as Vernon Dursley. and Katherine Parkinson as Molly Weasley.
The series is structured as a faithful retelling of JK Rowling’s novels, with each season adapting one book from the seven-part story. Fans can expect iconic moments to come to life, from magical classrooms to soaring Quidditch pitches. A first look image previously released by HBO showed Harry wearing the Gryffindor cloak walking towards the Quidditch pitch, demonstrating the filmmakers’ attention to detail and respect for the original story.
The series, filmed at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in the UK, is helmed by showrunner Francesca Gardiner, with Succession director Mark Myrod directing multiple episodes. Executive producers include Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts and David Heyman.
The Harry Potter series will give fans the chance to revisit the magical world that has captivated generations.
