Harry Potter is set to return in a move that could bolster toy and licensed product sales and introduce the character and his world to a whole new generation.
After rumours began swirling around, Warner Bros Discovery has this week confirmed that it is putting together a new iteration of the classic book series.
This time, rather than feature films, the studio, alongside creator JK Rowling, is looking to develop a TV series based on the books. The series promises to be a “faithful adaptation” of the seven books, featuring much of the material excised from the following eight films.
The detail will enable the proposed series to boast a far lengthier running time than the blockbuster movies, while JK Rowling will executive produce, a new cast is being sought.
The series will air on the newly-rebranded Warner-owned US streaming network Max (formerly HBO Max), with the announcement timed to coincide with the unveiling of the new identity. The series will air on other services globally, although it is not yet clear if it will be via existing Warner relationships (HBO product airs through Sky Atlantic and NOW TV in the UK, for example), or as part of a new deal.
“Max’s commitment to preserving the integrity of my books is important to me, and I’m looking forward to being part of this new adaptation which will allow for a degree of depth and detail only afforded by a long form television series.”
JK Rowling
The series, which is not yet slated for an official release with no time frame given, will certainly give a new boost to Potter-related product. It continues to prove to be a winner – book sales were up 35% in the first half of 2022, while ethe Hogwarts Legacy game sold more than 12 million copies in its first two weeks.
Rowling said: “Max’s commitment to preserving the integrity of my books is important to me, and I’m looking forward to being part of this new adaptation which will allow for a degree of depth and detail only afforded by a long form television series.”
“We are delighted to give audiences the opportunity to discover Hogwarts in a whole new way,” said Casey Bloys, Chairman and CEO, HBO & Max Content. “Harry Potter is a cultural phenomenon and it is clear there is such an enduring love and thirst for the Wizarding World. In partnership with Warner Bros. Television and J.K. Rowling, this new Max Original series will dive deep into each of the iconic books that fans have continued to enjoy for all of these years.”
This is backed up by the figures: in the first half of 2022 sales of the Potter novels jumped 35 per cent. The strength of the franchise was underscored in March when, despite calls for boycott, the Hogwarts Legacy video game sold over 12 million copies in a fortnight. The argument that JK Rowling has destroyed her career is the greatest fantasy of all.
