Young hearts across the United Kingdom and Ireland have been set afluttering after HBO announced an open casting call for the upcoming Harry Potter TV series. The search is now on for the next generation of wizarding world stars to portray the iconic trio: Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger.
Aspiring young actors between the ages of 9 and 11 are being summoned to showcase their magical talents. For those kids out there already perfecting their “Wingardium Leviosa,” there’s a twist to this particular casting call. Instead of reciting lines from the books, candidates have been asked to submit two short self-tapes:
- A one-minute introduction, sharing details about themselves and their loved ones (pets included!).
- A 30-second reading of a poem or short story – with one important rule: no Harry Potter material allowed!
“We want to see the real you,” the casting call has stressed, encouraging applicants to use their natural accents and choose material that resonates with them personally.
As for HBO, it has committed to inclusive and diverse casting. The network stated that they’re seeking qualified performers regardless of “ethnicity, sex, disability, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by law.”
So far, the series is shaping up to be a promising production, with some impressive names attached:
- Francesca Gardiner (known for Succession and Killing Eve) as showrunner, writer, and executive producer.
- Mark Mylod (of Succession and Game of Thrones fame) is set to direct multiple episodes.
- J.K. Rowling, the original creator of the Harry Potter universe, is on board as an executive producer.
HBO has also revealed that they’re in it for the long haul. The series is expected to run for seven seasons, faithfully adapting each book in the acclaimed franchise. Filming is slated to begin in 2025–26 in the UK, with a target release date of 2026.
Potential young witches and wizards (or their Muggle parents) have until October 31 this year to submit their entries (a fittingly magical deadline for the Halloween season).
