HBO Max has announced a new Harry Potter series that will span at least a decade, with J.K. Rowling serving as an executive producer. The series will be a "faithful adaptation" of the original books, with one season dedicated to each of the seven books. The first season, based on Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (known as The School for Witchcraft and Wizardry in some regions), is set to launch on December 25, 2026, with eight episodes. The series will be available on HBO Max in France, with multiple subscription options for viewers. The new cast includes Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, and Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger. Filming began on July 14, 2025, and is expected to wrap in spring 2026. Additional cast members include Nick Frost as Hagrid, John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, and Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape. Some actors from the original film series, like Gary Oldman, have expressed interest in returning for the series. Francesca Gardiner has been named showrunner and executive producer, while Mark Mylod will direct several episodes. The series will be available on HBO Max, the streaming service of Warner Bros. Discovery. HBO Max is launching in France with three subscription tiers: 5.99 euros per month for two screens with ads and full HD, 9.99 euros per month for two screens without ads and full HD, with 30 downloads, and 13.99 euros per month for four screens without ads, 4K UHD, Dolby Atmos, and 100 downloads. J.K. Rowling is involved in the project as an executive producer, with HBO's director, Casey Bloys, stating that she has been "very, very involved in the process of selecting screenwriters and directors." Despite her controversial public statements, including openly transphobic views, these positions have not impacted the casting or hiring of other writers or producers. In June 2025, Rowling created a private fund to support transphobic activities using income from her Harry Potter-related works.