**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HBO MAX CONFIRMS MAJOR RECAST FOR “HARRY POTTER” TELEVISION SERIES

LONDON, ENGLAND — In a development that has sent shockwaves through the global entertainment industry, HBO Max officially announced a comprehensive recasting of the principal roles for its upcoming television adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series.

What: The streaming platform confirmed that all three lead roles—Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger—will be portrayed by an entirely new generation of actors. The decision marks a definitive departure from the original film franchise’s cast.

When: The announcement was made earlier today during a press conference at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden. Production is scheduled to commence in early 2025, with a target release window of early 2027.

Where: The series will be filmed primarily at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in Watford, England, the same location as the original eight films. International casting calls have been underway for the past six months.

Who: The newly appointed actors are:

• Jack Fitzgerald (age 12) of Manchester, England, as Harry Potter.
• Eleanor Vance (age 11) of Dublin, Ireland, as Hermione Granger.
• Oliver Chen (age 12) of London, England, as Ron Weasley.

According to HBO Max, the selection process involved over 32,000 applicants. The network stated the new cast was chosen for “fidelity to the source material and distinct chemistry.”

Why: Executives cited the need for “a fresh, authentic adaptation” that allows the story to unfold across a planned seven-season arc, providing greater depth to the characters’ development. “This is not a replacement of the films,” a studio spokesperson said. “This is a new beginning, with new actors who will grow into these iconic roles over the