The wizarding world is alight with excitement as HBO’s Harry Potter television series officially began filming at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden on July 14, 2025, marking a new chapter for the beloved franchise. At the center of this highly anticipated reboot is 11-year-old Scottish actor Dominic McLaughlin, cast as Harry Potter, a role famously portrayed by Daniel Radcliffe in the original films. The release of the first official image of McLaughlin as the Boy Who Lived, complete with round glasses, a lightning bolt scar, and Gryffindor robes, has sent fans into a frenzy. J.K. Rowling, the creator of the magical universe and an executive producer on the series, has praised McLaughlin’s casting, and her sentiments are echoed across the fandom. Additionally, Rowling delivered a pointed seven-word message to HBO and director Mark Mylod: “Stay true to the books’ heart.”

The first-look image, captured by photographer Aidan Monaghan, showcases McLaughlin’s striking resemblance to the Harry Potter described in Rowling’s novels, with his tousled dark hair and earnest expression. Fans have taken to X to express their unanimous approval, with posts describing McLaughlin as “perfectly cast” and “born to play Harry.” Rowling herself amplified this enthusiasm in a recent X post, stating, “Dominic embodies Harry’s spirit perfectly.” She highlighted his “natural warmth and quiet resilience,” qualities that align seamlessly with the character’s journey from an overlooked orphan to a brave wizard destined to confront Voldemort. McLaughlin, a relative newcomer with roles in the upcoming Sky comedy Grow and BBC’s Gifted, was chosen from over 30,000 children who auditioned in a 2024 open casting call, a process led by casting directors Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann.

Rowling’s praise for McLaughlin has resonated widely, with fans and critics alike noting his uncanny ability to capture Harry’s essence. Social media reactions have emphasized his physical likeness to the book’s description, with one X user calling him “the Harry we imagined while reading.” This overwhelming support contrasts with minor criticisms, such as debates over his eye color not matching the books’ green hue, but the consensus remains that McLaughlin’s casting is a triumph. His co-stars, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, have also received praise, completing a new Golden Trio that promises to bring fresh energy to the iconic roles. The ensemble is rounded out by heavyweights like John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, with additional casting announcements including Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom and Amos Kitson as Dudley Dursley.

Rowling’s seven-word message to HBO and Mylod, known for his work on Succession, underscores her commitment to a faithful adaptation. While she has lauded the scripts for the first two episodes as “so, so, so good” in a June 2025 X post, her latest statement serves as a reminder to preserve the core of her original work. The series, set to span seven seasons with each adapting one of Rowling’s novels, aims to explore the wizarding world with unprecedented depth, a prospect Rowling has championed for its ability to delve into details omitted from the films. Showrunner Francesca Gardiner and Mylod have promised a “faithful adaptation” that respects the books’ canonical ages and intricate storytelling, with Mylod expressing a desire to explore the “depths and crevices” of Hogwarts.

Despite the excitement, Rowling’s involvement has sparked controversy due to her public stance on transgender issues, drawing criticism from some fans and cast members, including Essiedu, who signed an open letter supporting trans rights in the U.K. film industry. HBO Chairman Casey Bloys has defended Rowling’s role, emphasizing that her personal views do not influence the series’ narrative, which centers on themes of “love and self-acceptance.” Rowling has remained steadfast, humorously noting on X that she’s stocked up on champagne in response to boycott calls. Her focus, however, remains on ensuring the series honors her books’ legacy.

As production ramps up for a 2027 premiere, McLaughlin’s portrayal has united fans in their anticipation. With Rowling’s endorsement and her clear directive to HBO and Mylod, the series is poised to rekindle the magic of Harry Potter for a new generation, proving that the Boy Who Lived continues to captivate hearts worldwide.