"Harry Potter" is one of the most popular franchises in the world. The series, started by British author J.K. Rowling in 1998, became a global phenomenon with its fantasy novels and equally successful film adaptations, cementing its place in pop culture. Over the years, many spin-offs and games set in the Hogwarts universe have been created, and soon the collection will expand with a series currently in the works at HBO.
When will the "Harry Potter" series premiere? Casting is underway
As announced by Warner Bros. Discovery, the "Harry Potter" series will cover all the books in Rowling's original series. The project is planned to span 10 years, with the first season set to premiere on HBO in 2026. Excitement is building, especially since the production is reportedly being given a budget comparable to that of "Game of Thrones" and "House of the Dragon," with estimates reaching a staggering $200 million per season.
According to recent reports from international outlets, the creators are currently searching for actors to play the main characters. While fans had hoped the stars of the film series would return to their roles, there is no indication of that happening at this time. However, there's a possibility that supporting characters, such as professors or the headmaster of Hogwarts, could be played by actors from the original films. This is where Gary Oldman sees an opportunity.
Film’s Sirius Black wants to star in the "Harry Potter" series. Who does Gary Oldman want to play now?
Some time ago, the Oscar-winning actor for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in "Darkest Hour" expressed interest in being part of the "Harry Potter" reboot. Although he played Sirius Black, Harry Potter’s godfather, in the film adaptations, he wasn't entirely satisfied with his performance.
I think my performance in that series is average. I really do. I don’t know, maybe if I had read the books like Alan Rickman did, if I had prepared ahead of time... If I had known what was coming, I’m sure I would have played it differently
- he said in an interview some time ago.
Perhaps for this reason, Oldman would like to return to the world of Hogwarts, but this time not as Sirius. In an interview with Indiewire.com, Oldman expressed his desire to play the headmaster of the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Albus Dumbledore.
I love Sirius, but there wasn’t enough of him in the films. He appeared and then suddenly disappeared behind the curtain. (...) Maybe in a few years, I could play Dumbledore
- he said hopefully. Will the creators decide to cast him? There’s a good chance, especially since both Richard Harris and Michael Gambon, who previously played the character, have passed away. However, the final decision will only be revealed in due time.
