On Jan. 26, several news outlets, including Variety and the Hollywood Reporter, announced that sources informed them about the early development of a live-action Harry Potter television series at HBO Max. 

The Wizarding World fandom is ever-expanding. Written by J.K. Rowling, the seven Harry Potter books have sold over 500 million copies, making it one of the most popular book series of all time. The books were then adapted into eight films, which have grossed nearly $8 million worldwide. In 2016, Warner Bros. Pictures released the first film from the “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” franchise, which focused on events leading up to Harry Potter’s time at the infamous witchcraft and wizardry school: Hogwarts. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Theme Park at Universal Studios in Hollywood and Orlando also exhibits a chain of themed areas based on the franchise. 

The vast amount of books, movies and amusement parks have kept fans of all ages engaged with the series for years. 

“I have been a fan of Harry Potter since I was little and I’ve always loved it. I think when I was younger, the fantasy and magical world obviously attracted me to the series, but the best part is that the series has had the ability to keep me interested as a teenager,” Miami Palmetto Senior High School junior and Harry Potter enthusiast Grace Weinbach said. 

According to sources, executives at HBO Max have discussed expanding the Wizarding World franchise with several potential writers. Although fans have speculated that a series surrounding the Harry Potter characters known as the “Marauders” may be in the works, details about the series’ focus have not been confirmed. 

“I’m personally hoping for a storyline about the Marauders. I think that would be something fun that both introduces new and fresh faces [to the series], but also reminds the fans about the original story,” Weinbach said.  

Some fans have expressed their discontent with the franchise expanding, as Rowling received a great amount of backlash after posting a series of anti-transgender tweets and subsequently published an essay defending her claims. On the other hand, some fans believe that furthering the franchise would unnecessarily expand the empire. 

In a recent interview, actor Rupert Grint said he does not expect to return to his role as Ron Weasley, Harry Potter’s best friend, in the rumoured series. Other actors from the franchise, such as Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter, and Emma Watson, who played Hermione, Granger, have not commented on the potential series. 

More information about the series could potentially get released in coming weeks or months by news agencies and/or HBO Max.