After swirling rumors for years about a new long-form series adaptation of the “Harry Potter” series, HBO confirmed today that a full seven season adaptation of the books has been ordered for their Max streaming service.
The series was announced today by Warner Bros. Discovery in a press release. The company described the series as follows:
The stories from each of Rowling’s Harry Potter books will become a decade-long series produced with the same epic craft, love and care this global franchise is known for. The series will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail, much loved characters and dramatic locations that Harry Potter fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will be authentic to the original books and bring Harry Potter and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and beloved films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.
The new “Harry Potter” series will feature an all-new cast, but did show off the same castle design from the films as well as the iconic John Williams-composed theme song in its reveal video, viewable below.
Author of the series J.K. Rowling is set to executive produce the series. Rowling has faced controversy in recent years for her outspoken position against transgender individuals, which has led to many fans distancing themselves from the franchise. She said in today’s release “Max’s commitment to preserving the integrity of my books is important to me, and I’m looking forward to being part of this new adaptation which will allow for a degree of depth and detail only afforded by a long form television series.”
While she will be an executive producer, Rowling is not expected to have day-to-day involvement or input on the actual writing of the series. The Hollywood Reporter is already noting comments from both within the entertainment industry and from fans alike slamming the series for Rowling’s involvement due to her comments on the transgender community.
Indeed it’s not possible to make any adaptations without Rowling’s involvement, as she still holds considerable control over the rights to her books.
“J.K. is an executive producer, and her insights will be helpful,” explained Casey Bloys, chairman and CEO, HBO & Max Content. “We are in the Harry Potter business. The TV show is new and exciting, but we’ve been in the Harry Potter business for 20 years; this isn’t a new decision. We’re comfortable being in the Potter business. J.K. is a very online conversation … It’s very nuanced and complicated and not something we’re going to get into. Our priority is what’s onscreen. The Harry Potter story is incredibly affirmative and positive about love and acceptance, and that’s our priority, what’s on the screen.”
No release date has been given, but it’s likely the series is still a long way off.
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