Margaret Chrystall
Updated on: October 9, 2024 12:43 pm GMT
HBO Launches Casting Call for ‘Harry Potter’ Series: A New Generation Awaits
The eagerly anticipated adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s celebrated “Harry Potter” series is moving forward with an open casting call for potential young stars. HBO announced this significant step on Monday, confirming to Variety that they are seeking actors to fill the iconic roles of Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger. This casting initiative specifically targets children aged 9 to 11 who will be residents of the U.K. and Ireland by April 2025.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
HBO’s casting announcement emphasizes a commitment to inclusive and diverse representation. The notice clearly states that gender, ethnicity, and disability will not hinder eligibility. “We are committed to inclusive, diverse casting,” the announcement reads. In a progressive move, HBO is seeking performers without regard to traditional social classifications, thereby encouraging a broad range of applicants.
Roles and Submission Requirements
The open casting call is designed for those who feel they can bring the beloved characters to life. Interested parties must submit two short self-tapes. The first is a brief performance of either a poem or a story chosen by the applicant—crucially, not from the “Harry Potter” franchise. “Please prepare a short poem or story of your choosing. It can be from your favourite book, a poem that you love, a monologue from a play, or something you’ve created,” the call specifies. The first submission is limited to 30 seconds.
For the second self-tape, applicants should introduce themselves, including personal details such as their date of birth, height, and place of residency. They are also encouraged to discuss a family member, friend, or pet they feel particularly close to—this part must be kept to one minute. The aim is to present candidates in their own accents, capturing the essence of their individuality.
Key Details for Interested Applicants
All submissions must be made by October 31, 2023. Filming for the series is scheduled to take place in the U.K. during 2025 and 2026. The exact release date for the series is still under wraps, but Warner Bros. Discovery’s CEO David Zaslav previously suggested a target release timeframe of 2026.
Showrunners and Writers
The adaptation is expected to span seven seasons, paralleling the structure of Rowling’s original book series. Francesca Gardiner, known for her work on “Succession,” “Killing Eve,” and “His Dark Materials,” will serve as the showrunner and executive producer. Joining her as an executive producer is Mark Mylod, another “Succession” veteran, who will also direct several episodes. They will work alongside notable figures such as J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, and David Heyman, further solidifying the creative team behind this ambitious project.
Looking Ahead
The open casting call represents a significant step toward rebooting the “Harry Potter” series for a new audience. As fans eagerly await further updates, they can visit the Cast It website for more details about the casting process.
HBO wants to honor the original Harry Potter movies while also bringing new energy to the magical world of Hogwarts. They are telling the story in a way that includes more diversity and different voices, making sure that the magic of Harry Potter can connect with kids and families for many years ahead.
