The main series of Harry Potter films may have concluded nearly a decade ago, but the Wizarding World franchise is still growing. On the big screen, it’s continuing through the Fantastic Beasts series, which is set to release its third installment in 2022. Now, it would appear that the franchise may be headed to the small screen as well, as it’s been reported that a Harry Potter TV series is currently in early development at HBO Max. While the show is not officially confirmed at this point, it hasn’t stopped fans from sharing their thoughts and, now, franchise vet Rupert Grint has weighed in on the rumored project.
Rupert Grint was first cast as Harry Potter’s best friend, Ron Weasley, back in 2000 and filmed as his last scene as the character in 2010. With this, he feels a bit of ownership over his beloved character, which is why he thinks it would be somewhat strange if the new HBO Max series turns out to be a continuation of the original story:
It’ll be weird if it was a continuation kind of thing. I weirdly feel quite protective of that character. Even when I saw the stage shows, it was a very strange experience. … If it’s like a different group of friends, I guess it would be interesting.
Rupert Grint’s recent comments to Variety are definitely understandable. The Harry Potter franchise was heavily defined by the friendship between the titular wizard and friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. As a result, seeing a new group of young wizards at Hogwarts would be somewhat jarring for the actor and possibly fans of the series. It wouldn’t be a stretch to say that some may experience similar feelings when watching Fantastic Beasts' cast of new characters as well.
Grint still appears to have a fond connection to his Harry Potter role, though he has admitted that he finds it hard to watch the films. He did, however, confirm that his new baby girl has given him a reason to revisit them, as he can now share them with her when she’s a bit older.
Believe it or not, Rupert Grint has also expressed interest in returning to the franchise. He previously expressed interest in reprising his famous role in the play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. And the actor most recently reiterated that he would “never say never” to potentially appearing in a future Harry Potter project.
It remains to be seen if the HBO Max’s Harry Potter show actually comes to fruition and, if it does, one can only guess what direction the producers might be headed in. One thing that is clear is that Rupert Grint, along with countless fans, will be curious to see how things play out with the potential TV series.
While you await more updates on the Harry Potter series, be sure to check out CinemaBlend’s winter TV schedule for upcoming premieres.
