Dominic McLaughlin Named New Harry Potter in HBO Series – What to Expect

The wizarding world has a brand-new chosen one, and his name is Dominic McLaughlin. HBO and Warner Bros. Discovery have confirmed that the rising British actor will don the iconic round glasses to headline the studio’s forthcoming, decade-spanning Harry Potter television reboot, slated to begin production in early 2026. McLaughlin, 12, is best known for his breakout turn in last year’s BAFTA-nominated indie drama “Grow,” but the Hogwarts Express marks his first franchise role. He joins newcomers Arabella Stanton (Hermione Granger) and Alastair Stout (Ron Weasley) to re-create J.K. Rowling’s original seven-book saga for the small screen. Each season will adapt one novel, giving the creative team space to explore storylines only hinted at in the blockbuster films, according to executive producer Casey Bloys. Sources close to the production reveal that showrunner Francesca Gardner (“His Dark Materials”) intends to shoot primarily at the newly expanded Leavesden Studios, with location work planned at Alnwick Castle and the Scottish Highlands to maintain cinematic scale. Casting directors reportedly auditioned more than 5,000 hopefuls worldwide before selecting McLaughlin, whose screen test opposite an animatronic Hedwig “had the room in tears,” one insider says. The young star’s rapid ascent mirrors previous Potter actors’ trajectories: Daniel Radcliffe landed the role at 11 and parlayed it into a diverse career on stage and screen. Industry analysts predict similar visibility for McLaughlin, noting that the HBO reboot will stream globally on the yet-to-be-rebranded Max service, reaching more than 100 million subscribers at launch. Fan response has been electric across social media, with the hashtag #DominicMcLaughlin trending minutes after the announcement. Rowling, who serves as executive producer, tweeted her congratulations, calling the trio “brave, bright and bound to make magic.” Filming begins in spring 2026, with Season 1—adapting “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”—targeting a 2027 premiere. Audiences can expect fresh visual effects, deeper character arcs and an entirely new cast of professors and antagonists, casting calls for which are underway now. Key Takeaways for Fans and Searchers • Dominic McLaughlin officially cast as Harry Potter in HBO’s TV reboot • Arabella Stanton (Hermione) and Alastair Stout (Ron) round out the golden trio • 7-season plan: one book per season, shooting at Leavesden Studios • Production starts 2026; premiere expected 2027 on Max Keep this page bookmarked for casting updates, trailer drops, and behind-the-scenes set reports as McLaughlin steps into the Great Hall and ushers a new generation into Hogwarts.