The HBO Original Harry Potter series is deep into filming its first season, which began last summer. Fans already know about key cast members like Dominic McLaughlin as Harry, John Lithgow as Dumbledore, and Nick Frost as Hagrid, but more magical additions are now being revealed.

We've learned that Naomi Wirthner, known for Slow Horses, will portray the iconic Madam Malkin. This Diagon Alley tailor, crucial for outfitting young wizards and witches, should appear early in the first season as Harry gets his Hogwarts robes. A fun tidbit for fans: Wirthner’s son, Frank Dillane, previously played young Tom Riddle in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

Another interesting casting reveal is Louis Shelton, who will play Head Boy Ron. This is a specific role, appearing as a vision when Ron looks into the Mirror of Erised, revealing his deepest desire. While Alastair Stout is cast as the main Ron, Shelton will embody this aspirational version. Meanwhile, actor Neil Edmond (The Agency) has joined the cast as an unnamed hotel manager. This suggests that the Railview Hotel scene, which was cut from the original Philosopher's Stone film, will be included in the new series.

Beyond casting, production is moving ahead with location shoots. Reports indicate that backdrop shots were recently filmed in Scotland, specifically around the Kyle of Lochlash line, using cameras inside a moving train. This strongly hints that viewers will get stunning, immersive views from inside the Hogwarts Express as Harry, Ron, and Hermione make their way to school.

Filming for the first season is expected to conclude in May 2026, with HBO officially targeting an early 2027 release. Excitingly, a second season is planned to film back-to-back after a brief break, ensuring more wizarding world content is on its way.