Fourteen years after the Golden Trio last graced the big screen, Harry Potter is making a comeback in a TV reboot. HBO has unveiled the first look at its highly anticipated adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s beloved book series, and fans can’t help but share their reactions to it.
The network also announced that the show’s production is officially underway, making the wait for its slated 2027 release all the more exciting—if not a bit agonizing.
With Dominic McLaughlin now stepping into the iconic role of the Boy Who Lived, and the reveal of the new cast additions, here’s what fans have to say.
How Have Fans Reacted to Harry Potter’s First Look?
In the first look at the Harry Potter reboot, McLaughlin gave an awkward smile as he donned his character’s signature round glasses and scruffy hair.
He was also wearing a Hogwarts uniform while holding a clapboard that indicated they were filming Episode 101.
And though the show’s cast received mixed reactions, there’s no denying that the 11-year-old star looks every inch Harry Potter than Daniel Radcliffe himself.
He also has green eyes, which is book accurate, and are different from the movie series’ original actor’s blue eyes.
Twitter user @GigaTerrapin claimed that though Radcliffe would always be the original Harry Potter, McLaughlin appeared to be a “good fit.”
@MediaListCom seems dazzled by the young actor’s charisma as he’s now ready to take the role of a famous wizard.
@PhotoGridGossip also can’t help but be adored by McLaughlin’s cuteness, making him look identical to the Harry Potter they know from the books.
Meanwhile, McLaughlin celebrated the release of the first look at the Harry Potter reboot with a post on Instagram, which his parents manage
“First day in the Wizarding World!” he captioned his snap. “Still can’t quite believe I’m living this dream.”
He also admitted to being “lost for words” after putting on the Gryffindor robes, holding the show’s clapboard, and finally bringing Harry Potter to life.
“Thank you to everyone who believed in me,” he said. “Let the magic begin!”
Who are the Other Cast members of the Harry Potter reboot?
Meanwhile, HBO has also revealed additional cast members for the Harry Potter series. Rory Wilmot will take on the role of Neville Longbottom, Amos Kitson will join as Dudley Dursley, Louise Brealey will portray Madam Rolanda Hooch, and Anton Lesser will step in as Garrick Ollivander.
Previously, Arabella Stanton and Joshua Pickering were announced as Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, completing the Golden Trio alongside McLaughlin’s Harry Potter.
The cast also features several notable names, including Nick Frost as Hagrid, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, and Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall.
HBO has promised that the reboot will be a “faithful adaptation” of Rowling’s bestselling novels, with each season covering the events of one of the seven books.
When the show was first announced in 2023, the network teased it would be “full of the fantastic detail, much-loved characters, and dramatic locations that Harry Potter fans have loved for over 25 years.”
Sure, there’s no denying that Radcliffe did justice to the character, but McLaughlin looks every bit as promising as the new Harry Potter.
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