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The announcement of HBO’s Harry Potter reboot has reignited conversations around the beloved franchise—and not just about casting or tone. As the series heads toward a full recasting and long-form format, many fans are asking a different question: Will any of the original cast return?
Officially, the new series is a clean slate. But as with any franchise relaunch, the shadow of the original remains. And the actors who helped build it are still being asked where they stand.
Credit: Warner Bros.
Who’s Leaving It Behind
Daniel Radcliffe, who spent a decade playing Harry Potter, has been clear about his position. “I think it’s very much like they’re going for a new series. There would be somebody else playing Harry. So I think it would be very weird for me to show up,” he said. Radcliffe’s stance isn’t bitter—just firm. He’s moved on, and wants the new cast to have space to do the same.
Emma Watson hasn’t issued a formal statement on the reboot, but her recent career choices suggest she’s unlikely to return. Her focus has shifted toward advocacy, fashion sustainability, and behind-the-scenes creative roles. In past interviews, she’s expressed caution about returning to major IP projects unless they align with her current values. So far, there’s no indication this one does.
Many of the adult ensemble from the original films have either passed away, retired, or expressed interest in closing that chapter for good. For some, the time spent in the Wizarding World was meaningful—but final.
Credit: Warner Bros.
Who Might Revisit the Magic
That doesn’t mean the door is closed across the board. Rupert Grint has voiced openness to returning under the right conditions. “If the timing was right and everyone was coming back,” he said, he’d be interested. “It was a character that was important to me, we kind of became the same person… I’m protective of him as well. It was my whole childhood.” Grint’s connection to Ron remains strong—but so does his caution about revisiting the role casually.
Tom Felton has also shown consistent enthusiasm for the franchise. Known for engaging with fans, writing about his experiences, and keeping close ties to the Harry Potter world, Felton has said he’d be open to a return in any form. While he’s joked about potential cameo ideas, his tone suggests he’d take a serious offer seriously.
Credit: Warner Bros.
These actors aren’t expecting to reprise their exact roles. But for fans hoping to see familiar faces—even briefly—Grint and Felton remain the most likely candidates.
With casting for the HBO series still underway, it’s clear that the focus will be on a new generation of magical talent. Still, the legacy cast’s words matter—not just as commentary, but as tone-setters. Their willingness to support, or step back from, the reboot will shape how longtime fans receive it.
In this next chapter, most of the original actors are choosing not to look back. But a few haven’t ruled it out. And for a franchise built on memory, even a small return could carry a lot of weight.
Which Harry Potter actors would you like to see return?
