A new adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter book series is coming to HBO Max, with details about its production, cast, and release schedule now confirmed. The series, titled Harry Potter at Hogwarts, will adapt J.K. Rowling’s seven novels, with each book forming the basis of a separate season. The first season, based on Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, will consist of eight episodes and is set to debut in 2026. Filming for the first season is scheduled to begin on July 14, 2025, at Warner Bros. Leavesden studios, a well-known location for previous Harry Potter film productions. Casting for the series has been largely completed, with over 30,000 children auditioning for roles. Dominic McLaughlin has been cast as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ronald Weasley. Other notable cast members include John Lithgow as the headmaster Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Professor Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as the enigmatic Severus Snape, and Nick Frost as the lovable half-human giant Rubeus Hagrid. The Dursleys, Harry’s aunt, uncle, and cousin in the books, are portrayed by Bel Powley, Daniel Rigby, and Atmos Kitson, respectively. The series is produced by HBO, with J.K. Rowling serving as an executive producer alongside Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod, who are also the showrunners. Gardiner is also an executive producer, while Mylod will direct several episodes. The production team includes renowned professionals such as Hans Zimmer and Bleeding Fingers for the music score, Holly Waddington for costume design, Adriano Goldman for cinematography, and others involved in special and visual effects, ensuring a rich and immersive experience for viewers. Originally planned for a 2026 release, the series was delayed to early 2027 before being finalized for a 2026 Christmas debut. The first season will be followed by a second season, which is already confirmed for production. This new series aims to provide a more detailed and faithful adaptation of the Harry Potter universe than the previous film series, offering fans a fresh look at the magical world of Hogwarts and its characters.