‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ trailer: First look at new Trio, Snape, Dumbledore and Hogwarts in HBO’s series reboot

HBO has unveiled the first trailer for its upcoming Harry Potter adaptation, offering an initial look at the new cast portraying the iconic characters and confirming a Christmas 2026 premiere.

The preview introduces Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, alongside Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, marking the first time the new trio appears on screen together. The footage traces Harry’s early journey, beginning at the Dursley household before transitioning to his arrival in the wizarding world.

Key moments teased in the trailer include Harry receiving his Hogwarts letter, his encounter with Hagrid and his first journey to Hogwarts. The sequence also revisits familiar settings such as Platform Nine and Three-Quarters, the Great Hall and the Gryffindor common room.

The teaser also provides first glimpses of several major characters. Paapa Essiedu appears as Severus Snape, while John Lithgow portrays Albus Dumbledore and Janet McTeer plays Minerva McGonagall. Nick Frost is also seen as Hagrid.

The series, based on J. K. Rowling’s novels, is positioned as a long-form retelling of the books, with each season expected to cover one installment in greater detail than the original film franchise. Production has been underway at Leavesden Studios, with Francesca Gardiner serving as showrunner and Mark Mylod directing multiple episodes.

The project has drawn attention both for its scale and for casting decisions, particularly Essiedu’s role as Snape, which has prompted debate among fans. The actor has spoken about receiving online threats but emphasized the story’s themes of acceptance.

Warner Bros. Discovery has described the series as a major streaming event, reflecting the enduring global popularity of the Harry Potter franchise.