New Faces, Same Magic: Harry Potter Returns

Published 2026-10-28 07:45
Anastasiia Borysenko.
Generated using ChatGPT. Image: Anastasiia Borysenko.

HBO is officially working on a new adaptation of the legendary Harry Potter series — this time as a television series. And the premiere date has already been announced: the first episode is expected to air on Christmas Day, December 25, 2026.

 

Even before its premiere, the series has sparked debate among fans. Many believe that the television format will allow the creators to explore the atmosphere of the mysterious wizarding world in greater depth and bring the story even closer to the original books. Others worry whether the new actors will be able to capture the same vibe and emotions that fans loved in the films.

Although the creators promise to stay as faithful as possible to the original books, not everyone is happy with the casting choices. The leading roles have gone to young actors: Dominic McLaughlin will play Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton will portray Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout will take on the role of Ron Weasley.

It has also been confirmed that John Lithgow will play Albus Dumbledore, Nick Frost will portray Hagrid, and Paapa Essiedu will take on the role of Professor Severus Snape.

The announcement of the new Draco Malfoy has generated particular excitement. The character will be played by young British actor Lox Pratt.

However, the identity of the new Voldemort remains one of the series' biggest mysteries. Dozens of theories and fan discussions have already appeared online.

The trailer for the new series has already broken HBO viewing records, attracting more than 277 million views in its first 48 hours. This makes it the most-watched trailer in the history of HBO and HBO Max.

Millions of people are discussing the upcoming series on social media. Some fans are eagerly awaiting their return to Hogwarts, while others wonder whether the new adaptation will be able to surpass the iconic films that an entire generation grew up watching.

The reactions of Ukrainian fans on the social media platform Threads have been particularly emotional and mixed. Many users admit that the announcement of the series has brought back strong feelings of nostalgia and childhood memories.

"I've just seen the first official photo from the set, and that's it... I can't keep calm anymore! WHEN CAN WE FINALLY WATCH IT?!" writes user yelyzaveta.voskresenska.

Much of the discussion has focused on the new cast.

"I don't understand how to see these characters when they're played by different actors," writes user vlad.pug.

The portrayal of Severus Snape has sparked particularly heated debate.

"It's not about race. It's about staying true to the character as portrayed in the books. Snape is all about coldness, exhaustion, darkness, and a gothic vibe," explains user olenaartnook, sharing her concerns.

However, many Ukrainians have been delighted by the teaser.

"Everything feels so fresh and nostalgic at the same time. The golden trio and Draco look really great," writes user gl_darria.

"WOOOW! I've got goosebumps. A new era of Hogwarts is beginning," concludes user muse_viktoria.

I can't stay out of this discussion either, so here's my opinion: judging by the trailer, the new Harry Potter series looks incredibly atmospheric and beautiful. I really liked the visuals, as everything looks magical and modern while still reminding me of the Hogwarts I remember from childhood.

I also think that most of the actors have been well cast, especially those playing the "golden trio" and Draco Malfoy.

However, the portrayal of Severus Snape feels unusual and not quite how he was described in the books. Because of this, I find it difficult to accept this interpretation of the character for now, since I imagined him very differently after reading the story.

It looks like this might be the most eagerly anticipated Christmas ever, doesn't it?

 

 

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References: (1) Суспільне | Новини, (2) Instagram-сторінка HBO Max
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