First Harry Potter image released as production begins

 HBO has officially commenced production on its highly anticipated "Harry Potter" television series, slated for a 2027 release. To mark the occasion, the network unveiled the first image of newcomer Dominic McLaughlin as the young wizard, donning the iconic Gryffindor robes, round glasses, and lightning bolt scar. 

McLaughlin was selected from over 30,000 hopefuls, joining Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. The series also features notable actors such as John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid.

Filming is underway at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in the UK, the original location for the film series. The show aims to provide a more faithful adaptation of J.K. Rowling's novels, with Francesca Gardiner as showrunner and Mark Mylod directing multiple episodes. 

While the first look has generated excitement among fans, online reactions have been mixed, with some expressing skepticism over casting choices and visual styles

The series is expected to premiere on HBO in early 2027.