Meet HBO’s New Harry Potter: First Look at Dominic McLaughlin
Nothing says magical reboot like casting a pint-sized lead with a forehead scar cuter than the original. HBO has just unveiled the very first images of Dominic McLaughlin as young Harry Potter, and the internet is already dusting off its invisibility cloak. The new series, shot at Warner Bros. Studios in the UK, aims to reintroduce J.K. Rowling’s beloved wizarding world in expanded episodic form. McLaughlin, sporting round glasses, ragged robes, and the signature lightning scar, steps into the role Daniel Radcliffe made famous back in 2001.
Fans got their first official peek at the little wizard this July when HBO released production stills showing McLaughlin on set. The photos reveal Hogwarts’ Great Hall in the background and hints of early-year magic lessons. Casting this Hogwarts hopeful was no small feat. More than 10,000 young actors auditioned over an eight-month process, all vying to don those iconic robes. In May, HBO confirmed that McLaughlin would headline alongside Alastair Stout as the ever-loyal Ron Weasley and Arabella Stanton as the brainy Hermione Granger. Industry insiders tell TMZ the trio’s chemistry during screen tests sealed the deal.
Content creators have pointed out that the new cast bears a striking resemblance to the original trio—Stout’s wide-eyed grin mirrors Rupert Grint’s mischievous charm, while Stanton’s serious mien channels Emma Watson’s early determination. Behind the scenes, showrunners are promising deeper dives into fan-favorite subplots and fresh perspectives on Hogwarts’ darker corners. Filming kicked off in June 2025, and insiders say the production is on schedule to premiere sometime in late 2026.
Critics and fans alike are already dissecting these first images. Some applaud HBO’s commitment to authenticity, noting the vintage set pieces and period-appropriate costumes. Others wonder if a modern streaming audience will embrace the slower, more detailed storytelling compared to the original films. According to a spokesperson from HBO, this reboot is designed to satisfy longtime devotees and lure in new generations who grew up bingeing fantasy series.
Industry watchers are also highlighting how this production reflects a broader trend of high-profile IP reboots on streaming platforms. With big budgets and an all-star creative team, HBO is betting that relaunching Harry Potter in episodic form can recapture lightning in a bottle. And with McLaughlin leading the charge, there’s a good chance this show will become water-cooler conversation for years to come.
So grab your broomstick and polish your wands—there’s a fresh wave of magic headed to small screens. Stay tuned for more robe adjustments and budding magical mishaps when HBO’s Harry Potter reboot finally arrives.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ, HBO
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
