Fans skeptical as report claims ambitious ‘Harry Potter’ TV series is in ‘active development’
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The wizarding world of 'Harry Potter' may soon cast its spell on television screens. Warner Bros Discovery recently revealed that a 'Harry Potter' television series is in early development for its HBO Max streaming platform.
As reported by Deadline, several writers are currently pitching their interpretations of how to best adapt JK Rowling's beloved book series for television. However, reactions from fans on social media display a healthy mix of eager anticipation and wary skepticism.
The ‘HARRY POTTER’ TV series is in active development at Max with ideas already being pitched for the script.
— The Hollywood Handle (@HollywoodHandle) January 19, 2024
(Via: https://t.co/OhI1K9pzHF) pic.twitter.com/VSguhJeAzn
'Harry Potter' television series was first announced in April 2023
A 'Harry Potter' television series, first announced by Warner Bros Discovery in April 2023, is moving forward with writers now pitching their takes on adapting Rowling's beloved books. Marathon pitch meetings took place this week in Los Angeles with a mix of British and American writers presenting their ideas for bringing 'Harry Potter' to the small screen.
Among the writers are Martha Hillier, Kathleen Jordan, Tom Moran and Michael Lesslie. Hillier served as executive producer on Netflix's 'The Last Kingdom,' Jordan created Netflix's 'Teenage Bounty Hunters', Moran developed Amazon's 'The Devil's Hour', and Lesslie wrote the screenplay for 'The Hunger Games' prequel 'The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes'.
The writers were commissioned by HBO Max and Warner Bros Television to develop competing visions for a 'Harry Potter' series. The first round took place in Los Angeles this week, with the top choices expected to move on to additional meetings in the UK.
JK Rowling expected to be involved in selecting winning pitch for 'Harry Potter' series
Rowling is expected to be involved in selecting the winning pitch along with executives from HBO Max and the production company she co-founded, Brontë Film and TV.
More than one writer could potentially stay on to develop their ideas further as Max remains open to spawning multiple Harry Potter-based projects from different creative talent.
Warner Bros Discovery CEO David Zaslav has promised fans a decade-long magical journey on Max, stating, "It’s really moving, for 10 consecutive years, people will see Harry Potter on HBO; I mean it’s really something."
Rowling's wizarding world, a juggernaut spawned from her bestselling books, has transcended literature to become a global phenomenon encompassing retail stores, theme parks, a stage play, and the blockbuster franchise.
Internet reacts to news that writers are pitching ideas for 'Harry Potter' TV series
As news spread that writers are fervently pitching ideas for the 'Harry Potter' TV series, the online community couldn't contain its reactions.
One X user said, "I hope this isn’t terrible."
Another suggested humorously, "How about you pitch it in the trash instead."
A third user, seemingly exasperated, voiced their skepticism, declaring, "Wdc, literally not a single soul on the planet asked for this."
Meanwhile, a disheartened observer drew parallels with another iconic franchise, commenting, "I see they didn’t learn anything from what happened to the Star Wars franchise."
Wdc, literally not a single soul on the planet asked for this
— Ravens/Jenna Ortega stan 🇵🇸🍉 (@BmoreBro96) January 19, 2024
I see they didn’t learn anything from what happened to the Star Wars franchise.
— Mike Albanese (@Malbanese1922) January 20, 2024
Adding a touch of constructive criticism, a fifth user proposed, "Script idea…follow the books."
A sixth user expressed anticipation for the project but maintained reservations, stating, "Finally. Can't wait for this project. But still don't think this is a good idea."
Finally. Can't wait this project. But still don't think this is a good idea
— Mr. Miracul (@MMiracul) January 19, 2024
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.