EntertainmentHarry Potter: Director approves Cillian Murphy as Voldemort in new series

In a promise to expand and bring a new perspective on the saga of Harry Potterthe HBO prepares a new series set in the magical world of Hogwarts.

For now, the project is not yet completely off the ground. Recordings are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2025, while the premiere is scheduled for 2026, on the streaming service Max.

As production is still in its infancy, the main cast has not been defined. However, some rumors have caught the attention of fans. This is the case, for example, of Mark Rylance (Bridge of Spies), quoted to interpret Dumbledorewhile Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You) is seen as a strong candidate for the role of Snape.

Another name that gained prominence was that of Cillian Murphywho gave life to the mobster Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders and took the Oscar best actor for Oppenheimer.

Director reacts to Cillian Murphy in Harry Potter

The actor was speculated as a possible interpreter of the villain Lord Voldemort. Despite being just a rumor, the matter was commented on by Chris Columbusdirector responsible for the first two films in the franchise in theaters — Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001) and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002).

When asked by the North American magazine People about speculation, Columbus indicated that, if it depended on him, Murphy can prepare to cast spells and duel with Harry, Ron and Hermione.

Cillian is one of my favorite actors, so that would be amazing.”

New production

Chris Columbus also celebrated the new initiative to adapt the story of the Hogwarts wizards and highlighted that a series with several episodes and seasons allows for greater fidelity to the books.

I think it’s a spectacular idea, because there’s a certain restriction when you’re making a film. Our film was two hours and 40 minutes long, and the second one was almost the same length. The fact that they can do multiple episodes for each book, I think that’s fantastic. You can get all the things in the show that we didn’t get the opportunity to do in the movies… All these great scenes that we just couldn’t get in.”

What else is known about the Harry Potter series

One of the main differences between the new series and the already established films is the format. Each of the seven books will be adapted into a full season, which will allow for a more detailed approach to the characters and the magical universe.

According to the Varietythe showrunner Francesca Gardiner and the director Mark Mylod they see the series as an opportunity to expand on the books and films without compromising their legacy. They highlighted the desire not to “mess with” the iconic appearance of the Great Hall and the intention to explore previously less developed character arcs, including Hogwarts staff and workers.

JK Rowlingcreator of the universe Harry Potterwill be executive producer of the series, which has generated controversy due to the comments she has made publicly about gender issues in recent years. The author was widely criticized for statements on her social media that many considered transphobic, including posts and essays that questioned the rights of the trans community and discussions about gender identity. These positions divided fans, generated boycotts and even took part of the original cast, such as Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grintto publicly take a stand in defense of the LGBTQIA+ community.

THE HBO chose to keep Rowling in a prominent role in the production. During a press conference on November 12, Casey Bloyshead of the company, stated that the writer was “very involved in the process of choosing the screenwriter and director” and that her comments did not affect the decision to work with her. “Our focus is on bringing her vision for the series to life and expanding this universe loved by so many,” he said. Bloys.