HBO’s Harry Potter: Episode Count, Back-to-Back Filming, and Major Casting Reveals

If you’ve been following my coverage since HBO first announced its ambitious Harry Potter reboot, you’ll know we’ve tracked everything — from early casting whispers to behind-the-scenes production shifts. Excitement among fans worldwide is palpable, and this week brings several major developments: episode structure, fresh casting, and on-set footage of a key early scene.

Season One: Eight Episodes

One persistent rumour was that Seasons One and Two would each contain six episodes. Redanian Intelligence and Collider confirm that Season One will consist of eight episodes, giving the production team more room to explore the rich details of The Philosopher’s Stone.

Eight episodes allow for more measured pacing, meaning scenes and subplots can be fully fleshed out. From magical world-building to character development — particularly for Harry, Ron, and Hermione — this format promises a deeper, more immersive experience.

Showrunner Francesca Gardiner, known for His Dark Materials and as co-executive producer on Killing Eve, brings extensive experience in adapting complex stories for television. Her skill in handling layered characters and intricate plots is exactly what makes me feel confident that this Harry Potter adaptation will hit all the major plot points while keeping the story engaging and true to the books. It’s her track record that gives me real faith in how this series will bring Hogwarts to life.

Season Two: Likely Similar

Season Two’s episode count is less certain. One report suggested six episodes, but given Season One’s update, it’s reasonable to expect a similar structure, potentially eight episodes (Redanian Intelligence). HBO has not officially confirmed, and adjustments may be made to suit story pacing or production logistics as the narrative grows more complex.

Back-to-Back Filming — The Production Pace Picks Up

HBO plans to film Seasons One and Two back-to-back, with Season One shooting from July 2025 to May 2026, and Season Two from July 2026 to May 2027 (According to Winter Is Coming).

This accelerated timeline is crucial for a series spanning seven books. The cast and crew will have short breaks, especially important for younger actors whose appearances must remain consistent. Fans also benefit, avoiding lengthy waits between seasons and keeping momentum high.

As production progresses, I’ll continue to track updates on casting, filming locations, and creative decisions. Key reveals to watch for include full cast announcements for iconic characters still under wraps — notably Voldemort.

First Look at the Leaky Cauldron

On 17 August 2025, HBO transformed the Blue Maid pub on Borough High Street into the legendary Leaky Cauldron (Collider).

Passersbys caught a glimpse of Dominic McLaughlin (Harry) and Nick Frost (Hagrid) filming together, with Hagrid’s towering double, Anthony Wallyn, spotted wearing a Nick Frost mask to capture the half giant’s height in wider shots.

In the footage, Harry and Hagrid cross the busy street right into the path of an oncoming black taxi. Hagrid shouts, strides ahead, and Harry almost runs to keep up — this scene is seemingly the moment just before their first visit to the Leaky Cauldron.

Fans will also notice HBO’s commitment to authentically 1990s England, from costumes and extras to vehicles (Collider). As someone born in the 90s, it feels almost surreal to see Harry Potter treated as a period drama in this adaptation.

Red Hair? You Must Be The Weasleys!

On 18 August 2025, HBO announced new Weasley cast members! An adorable selfie from the set at Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden introduced Tristan Harland, Gabriel Harland, Ruari Spooner, and Gracie Cochrane, playing Fred, George, Percy, and Ginny respectively.

They join Alastair Stout as Ron and Katherine Parkinson as Molly Weasley. With such a large family, more characters will likely be revealed in future announcements.

Dominic McLaughlin Speaks on Becoming Harry Potter

Dominic McLaughlin shared his excitement about playing The Boy Who Lived while promoting his new film Grow alongside Nick Frost. In an interview on 19 August 2025, he described stepping into the role as “a bit surreal,” reflecting on his longtime admiration for the series.

“A bit surreal to be honest, because I was always a huge Harry Potter fan when I was younger,” he said. “And it was like the dream role, of course, so I’m thrilled to be able to be doing it.”

McLaughlin’s excitement is heartening to see, as he gets to bring a character he clearly loves to life. Fans will also get an early glimpse of his on-screen work with Frost in Grow, a magical family comedy set in a pumpkin-growing town. The film premiered at the Edinburgh International Film Festival from 16–19 August 2025 and will be available to stream on Sky Cinema and NOW starting 10 October 2025.

Below is another interview with Scottish Geek Guy where he speaks with Dominic and his co-star Jeremy Swift about GROW at Edinburgh Film Festival 2025.

A Fresh Vision for Hogwarts

HBO’s Harry Potter series is taking a more grounded, naturalistic approach, moving away from the stylised aesthetic of the original films. Director and executive producer Mark Mylod (Succession) and showrunner Francesca Gardiner are delving into the books’ “depths and crevices,” expanding character arcs, exploring untapped corners of Hogwarts, and adding fresh layers to the wizarding world.

The adaptation aims to stay true to the spirit of the original stories while offering new perspectives and discoveries for fans both old and new. Unless there’s a major development, this will likely be my last Harry Potter article of the summer—but that could change, so keep an eye out for any owl post from Vocal Media.