HBO's Harry Potter show gets exciting filming update and first look

After months of waiting, HBO has finally confirmed that the new Harry Potter series is in production. While it has been reported that the show would start production in the summer of 2025, it wasn't official until the HBO and Harry Potter social media pages posted a first look photo of Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter. In addition to confirming the series is in production and providing a first look at the new Harry Potter, HBO announced four new cast members.

The post was short and sweet, accompanied by a photo of McLaughlin in costume, holding a slate for the series.

"First-years, step forward. The HBO Original Harry Potter series is now in production," read the caption which was accompanied by the below first look photo from the set

As reported by Variety, the new adaptation is set to film from summer 2025 through spring 2026. Season 2 will go into production shortly after, though a break between filming each season is expected.

With this information, it comes as no surprise that HBO confirmed the show will be released in early 2027. While it is a bit of time to wait, with production on season 2 starting soon after season 1 filming ends, it should mean there isn't as much time between each season's air date. This hopefully sets the series up for a new season every year, rather than every other year like many shows have gone to.

The first look photo not only confirms production has started, but also shows some subtle differences between the film and television adaptations look for the titular character. Harry Potter's iconic scar already looks a bit different, appearing more raised in comparison to the movie depiction. While the films have Harry's scar slightly off-center, in the photo, it appears to be more to the side of the forehead. It is also a bit more natural, rather than the angular scar from the movies.

There is also a bit of a different look to the Gryffindor tie. Rather than the two thick stripes and one slim stripe pattern used in the movie, the tie McLaughlin wears has one outlined stripe. The gold color of the stripe also appears more muted. Notably, a Gryffindor crest is not visible on the vest or robe, but it could be blocked by the film slate.

The slate confirms the first episode is being directed by Mark Mylod, who is also an executive producer on the series. Mylod is anticipated to direct multiple episodes in the first season. Francesca Gardiner serves as showrunner and one of the writers, alongside a team of others including Martha Hillier and Ripley Parker.

Now that filming has started, more first look photos, information, and casting could be on the way. Stay tuned as we keep you informed with every announcement along the way as we all anticipate the 2027 release.

More from Wizards and Whatnot: