Could Epic Universe Be the First Step in a Harry Potter Rebrand?

Universal Studios Orlando is preparing to launch its most ambitious project yet with Epic Universe, a sprawling new theme park opening on May 22.

Among its most anticipated areas is a brand-new Wizarding World area— this time, based around the UK’s Ministry of Magic and wizarding Paris as seen in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2015). But with HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter reboot already in motion, promising a full recast and decade-long retelling, the timing raises an unavoidable question: is Universal heading for a soft rebrand of its prized Harry Potter attractions?

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter themed lands in Florida, Hollywood, Japan, and Beijing are still rooted firmly in the visual identity of the eight-film franchise. From Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley, visitors encounter characters, architecture, and attractions that match the beloved film series led by Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint.

Even the Fantastic Beasts offshoot — used as partial inspiration for the new Epic Universe land — fits within that same cinematic framework.

But the upcoming HBO series, spearheaded by Warner Bros. Discovery, will be a clean slate for the franchise. Casting is underway for a new generation of young witches and wizards (six actors have already been confirmed), with each season set to adapt a single book. This opens the door for a shift in aesthetic, storytelling, and canon — which might eventually extend into the parks.

Related: ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series: Everything We Know About the Reboot Nobody Asked For

While Universal has made no announcement about altering existing lands, the new Epic Universe area already serves as a kind of testing ground, seeing as Fantastic Beasts is an offshoot from the main eight films.

Of course, rebranding an entire land is no small feat. But if the HBO series takes off, fans may one day see a Wizarding World that resembles its TV counterpart more than the films that came before.

How would you feel about Universal Studios’ Harry Potter attractions and areas being rebranded? Let us know in the comments!