Warner Bros. Discovery has announced that the television adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter fantasy novels will arrive on the Max streaming platform in 2026. The update came from David Zaslav, the company’s chief executive, during a recent earnings presentation.
In a discussion about the company’s fourth-quarter results, Zaslav told American media outlets that he had just met in England with HBO and Max content teams as well as with J.K. Rowling, the author of the original material, to discuss the new series. He emphasized that both sides are excited to revive the franchise, noting that the conversations were productive and that there is a strong sense of anticipation for what lies ahead.
Back in April 2023, the media and entertainment conglomerate had revealed plans for a series slated to span a decade, with each season drawing from a book by Rowling. The announcements at the time also explained that the production would feature a brand-new cast, stepping away from the familiar faces of the film adaptations that began in 2001 with Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint portraying the core trio. At present, no actors have been cast to portray the iconic characters, and no director for the project had been announced.
In recent years, Rowling has remained a focal point of controversy due to statements that many fans have labeled anti-trans. This has sparked disappointment among a portion of the franchise’s audience, with some supporters even threatening to boycott the Warner Bros. series that will appoint Rowling as an executive producer.
The project is watched closely by fans, investors, and commentators alike, as it promises a reformulated take on a cherished universe while navigating the ethical and creative questions surrounding its leadership and direction. As production plans unfold, observers will be listening for how the revamped series balances fidelity to the beloved books with fresh storytelling, casting choices, and the artistic vision guiding the overall arc of the adaptation.