HBO confirms that JK Rowling is taking part in the ‘Harry Potter’ series – Deseret News

As production begins HBO TV series “Harry Potter”.the network confirmed plans to involve JK Rowling, the author of the original book series, in the creation of the series.

In a statement HBO shared, among others: Diversity AND Poulticethe network says the upcoming “Harry Potter” series can “only benefit” from Rowling’s collaboration, noting that the author “has the right to express her personal views.”

“We have been working with JK Rowling and the Harry Potter business for over 20 years,” the statement reads. “Millions of fans continue to enjoy the films, games and attractions, which means we have been a huge success and her contribution has been invaluable. We’re proud to once again tell the story of Harry Potter – uplifting books that speak about the power of friendship, determination and acceptance.

“JK Rowling has the right to express her personal views,” the statement continued. “We will remain focused on developing the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.”

For years, Rowling has been candid in sharing her opinions on transgender issues. Her comments made her the subject of criticism from both the public and some of the stars of Harry Potter..

Following news of HBO’s plan to adapt the Harry Potter novels into a television series, some “Harry Potter” fans have vowed to boycott the series due to Rowling’s comments on transgender issues, according to Diversity.

Rowling has creative control over adaptations of the book series. According to “Brontë Film and TV” and Warner Bros. Television, an agreement between Rowling’s studio, Brontë Film and TV, and Warner Bros. Television was achieved in 2023. Deadline. Rowling confirmed her participation in the series in a statement shared with the portal.

“Max’s commitment to preserving the integrity of my books is important to me, and I look forward to being involved in this new adaptation, which will achieve a level of depth and detail that can only be achieved in long-form television series,” Rowling said in statement entitled Deadline.

According to HBO and Max CEO Casey Bloys, JK Rowling will be an executive producer on the series and “her insights will be helpful in that,” Bloys said, per Deadline.

JK Rowling’s opinions have no influence on the casting

Open casting for the HBO series “Harry Potter” is already underway.

“Casting has started in the UK and Ireland, so the process is progressing. “Things are going pretty well,” said Channing Dungey, chairman and CEO of Warner Bros. TV Group Hollywood reporter in October.

HBO is “committed to an inclusive and diverse cast,” the network said in a statement shared Diversity. “We ask that qualified performers be considered for each role without regard to ethnicity, gender, disability, race, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other basis protected by law, unless otherwise expressly stated.”

According to Bloys, Rowling’s opinions will not influence casting decisions.

“(Rowling) was quite involved – she was very involved in the process of selecting the writer and director,” Bloys told reporters at HBO’s 2025 preview presentation in West Hollywood, California, according to Entertainment Weekly. “I imagine she will have her own opinion about the casting. It didn’t affect casting or hiring writers or production staff or anything like that, so we didn’t feel any impact from it.