What unusual feature about Dominic McLaughlin helped him get cast as the lead actor for Harry Potter?

The wizarding world is buzzing with anticipation as HBO unveils the first official image of Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in the upcoming Harry Potter series, set to premiere in 2027. Released on July 14, 2025, the photo captures the 11-year-old actor in the iconic Hogwarts uniform—black robe, white shirt, tie, and round glasses—standing on set with a clapperboard marked “Take 1.” Photographed by Aidan Monaghan, this first look marks the start of production at Leavesden Studios in the U.K., reigniting the magic of J.K. Rowling’s beloved franchise. With a stellar cast, a visionary production team, and a commitment to authenticity, this series promises to enchant both longtime fans and newcomers. Let’s dive into the details of this exciting reveal and explore what lies ahead for the boy who lived.

A New Chapter for Harry Potter

Since the publication of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in 1997, J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world has captivated millions. The seven-book series, chronicling Harry Potter’s journey from an orphaned boy to a hero at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, became a global phenomenon, translated into numerous languages and selling over 500 million copies. The subsequent film series, released from 2001 to 2011, grossed over $7.7 billion worldwide, with Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint bringing Harry, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley to life.

Now, HBO is set to reimagine this timeless tale for television, offering a fresh adaptation that delves deeper into Rowling’s rich narrative. Unlike the films, which condensed the books’ sprawling stories, the series will likely dedicate a season to each book, allowing for a more comprehensive exploration of characters, subplots, and magical details. Rowling, serving as an executive producer, has expressed enthusiasm for the project, praising the early scripts.

| J.K. Rowling: “The first two scripts are so, so good! I’m really excited about this new take on the wizarding world.” |

Filming at Leavesden Studios, the same U.K. location used for the original films, adds a layer of authenticity, connecting the new series to its cinematic roots. With a premiere slated for 2027, fans are eagerly awaiting a return to Hogwarts.

The New Harry Potter: Dominic McLaughlin

At the heart of this adaptation is Dominic McLaughlin, selected from over 30,000 young actors to portray Harry Potter. The first look image, released on July 14, 2025, shows McLaughlin in the iconic Hogwarts uniform, complete with the lightning bolt scar and round glasses that define the character. His expression—a mix of determination and wonder—captures Harry’s essence as a young wizard discovering his destiny.

McLaughlin’s casting has generated significant buzz, with fans praising his resemblance to the character described in Rowling’s books. Social media platforms like X and Reddit are abuzz with excitement, with many noting that McLaughlin embodies the youthful spirit of Harry while bringing a fresh perspective to the role.

Joining McLaughlin are Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, completing the iconic trio. Stanton, known for her roles in British television, is expected to bring intelligence and tenacity to Hermione, while Stout’s warm and loyal demeanor makes him a natural fit for Ron. The chemistry among these young actors will be crucial, and early reports suggest they’ve already formed a strong bond on set.

| Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod: “The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen.” |

A Stellar Supporting Cast

The series boasts an impressive lineup of veteran actors to portray Hogwarts’ staff and other key characters. John Lithgow, an acclaimed actor with a storied career, will play Professor Albus Dumbledore, bringing wisdom and gravitas to the beloved headmaster. Janet McTeer takes on Professor Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet compassionate Transfiguration teacher, while Nick Frost, known for his comedic roles, will portray the lovable Rubeus Hagrid.

Additional casting includes Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, whose complex and enigmatic nature will be a highlight of the series. Luke Thallon will play Professor Quirinus Quirrell, Paul Whitehouse will portray Argus Filch, the grumpy caretaker, Louise Brealey will take on Madam Rolanda Hooch, and Anton Lesser will embody Garrick Ollivander, the legendary wandmaker. Young actors Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom and Amos Kitson as Dudley Dursley round out the ensemble, promising a vibrant and diverse cast.

This mix of seasoned performers and fresh talent ensures that the series will capture the depth and richness of Rowling’s characters, from the heroic to the villainous.

The Art of Costume Design

The first look at Dominic McLaughlin in costume offers a glimpse into the series’ approach to recreating the wizarding world’s aesthetic. The Hogwarts uniform—black robe, white shirt, tie, and round glasses—is instantly recognizable, evoking nostalgia for fans of the original films. However, subtle updates, such as the robe’s cut and fabric, suggest a modern take that respects Rowling’s descriptions while adapting to television production needs.

Costumes are a cornerstone of the Harry Potter universe, reflecting characters’ personalities and house affiliations. The iconic colors of Gryffindor (red and gold), Slytherin (green and silver), Hufflepuff (yellow and black), and Ravenclaw (blue and bronze) will likely play a significant role in the series’ visual storytelling. The attention to detail in McLaughlin’s costume indicates that the production team is committed to authenticity, ensuring that fans feel transported back to Hogwarts.

Beyond Harry’s uniform, fans can expect a range of costumes, from the elaborate robes of Dumbledore and McGonagall to the rugged attire of Hagrid. The costume department faces the challenge of balancing fidelity to the source material with practical considerations, such as durability for long shooting schedules. Early images suggest they are succeeding, with designs that feel both familiar and refreshed.

Production Details and Creative Vision

Production for the Harry Potter series began on July 14, 2025, at Leavesden Studios, a location steeped in franchise history. This choice reinforces the series’ connection to the original films, which were also filmed there. The production is led by showrunner Francesca Gardiner, known for her work on Succession, and director Mark Mylod, who brings his expertise in character-driven storytelling to the project. Both are executive producers, alongside J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts, and David Heyman of Heyday Films.

The series aims to stay true to Rowling’s books while offering a fresh perspective. The TV format allows for a deeper exploration of subplots and characters that were condensed in the films, such as the intricacies of Hogwarts’ daily life or the backstories of characters like Neville Longbottom and Severus Snape. With each season likely covering one book, the series has the potential to delve into details that fans have long wanted to see on screen.

Fan Reactions and Cultural Impact

The release of the first look image has sparked a wave of excitement across social media. Fans on X and Reddit have praised Dominic McLaughlin’s resemblance to Harry Potter, with many expressing enthusiasm for the new cast. Comments like “He looks like he stepped right out of the books!” and “Can’t wait to see this trio in action!” reflect the anticipation surrounding the series.

However, not all reactions are unequivocally positive. Some fans are skeptical about the need for a new adaptation, given the success of the original films. Others worry whether the series can capture the magic of Daniel Radcliffe’s, Emma Watson’s, and Rupert Grint’s performances. The involvement of J.K. Rowling, who has faced controversy over her views on certain social issues, has also sparked debate among some fans, though her creative input is seen as essential by others.

Despite these concerns, the Harry Potter franchise remains a cultural juggernaut. Its themes of friendship, courage, and the fight against evil continue to resonate across generations. The new series has the opportunity to introduce Hogwarts to a new audience while rekindling the passion of longtime fans. The use of British settings, like Leavesden Studios, and the inclusion of U.K.-based actors add a touch of authenticity, grounding the series in the cultural context of Rowling’s creation.

The Road to 2027

As production continues, fans can expect more updates, including additional cast announcements, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and possibly early teasers. The series’ 2027 premiere feels distant, but each new reveal keeps the excitement alive. The first look at Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter is a promising start, suggesting that HBO is committed to delivering a high-quality adaptation.

The series will likely explore familiar locations like Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade, and the Forbidden Forest, alongside new interpretations of iconic moments, such as Harry’s first Quidditch match or his encounters with Voldemort. With a talented cast and crew, the series is poised to become a landmark in television history.

The anticipation for this series is palpable, and with each new update, fans are drawn deeper into the magic that Harry Potter has always embodied. As Hogwarts prepares to welcome a new generation of witches and wizards, the wizarding world is ready to cast its spell once again.