J.K. Rowling has given her verdict on the newly released cast for HBO's Harry Potter series as anticipation for the show grows.
In a casting announcement that has set the fandom buzzing, newcomers Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton, and Alastair Stout have been confirmed as the magical trio, stepping into the roles made iconic by Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint.
Taking on the role of the Boy Who Lived is Dominic McLaughlin, while Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout will portray Hermione and Ron, respectively.
After the announcement, one fan tweeted Rowling to say they were excited and that the trio is “already loved by the fandom and we can’t wait to see the show.”
The author replied: “All three are wonderful. I couldn’t be happier.”
Rowling, who remains a polarizing figure due to her views on the transgender community, is serving as executive producer on the series.
Despite the controversies, HBO has doubled down on her involvement, emphasizing the focus is firmly on bringing the beloved books to life.
A spokesperson for the network previously said (via Variety): “J.K. Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.”
HBO content chief Casey Bloys echoed that sentiment: “She’s been fairly involved. She was very involved in the process of selecting the writer and director, and I imagine she’ll have opinions on casting. It hasn’t affected the casting or hiring of writers and production staff. So we haven’t felt an impact from that.”
When asked about the backlash to Rowling’s views, Bloys added: “That’s a very online conversation, very nuanced and complicated and not something we’re going to get into.
“Our priority is what’s on the screen. Obviously, the Harry Potter story is incredibly affirmative and positive and about love and self-acceptance. That’s our priority – what’s on screen.”
The HBO reboot will span all seven of Rowling’s books across a 10-year series. Each season is set to dive deeper into the magical world than ever before.
Casting announcements began earlier this year, with Jon Lithgow cast as Albus Dumbledore.
Fan-favorite Nick Frost will play Rubeus Hagrid, while Paapa Essiedu is stepping into the iconic robes of Severus Snape. Janet McTeer will portray Minerva McGonagall.
Behind the scenes, the show is in trusted hands. Executive producers include Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman, the producer behind the original films.
Showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner (Succession, His Dark Materials) is writing the series, while Emmy-winner Mark Mylod (Succession, Game of Thrones) is directing multiple episodes and also serving as executive producer.