Original Harry Potter director has scathing reaction to controversial TV remake of hit franchise

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Not interested.

Chris Columbus, aged 66, was at the helm for the first two movies in the initial Harry Potter series: “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” in 2001 and “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” in 2002. However, he announced that his journey within the magical realm has come to an end.

In response to questions about participating in the new series, he said, “No, I’ve already been part of it. You’ve seen my take on it. I don’t have anything more to contribute to the world of Harry Potter.

columbus, famous for overseeing the production of the Home Alone series, Mrs. Doubtfire, and the latest movie, The Thursday Murder Club, decided to step away from the film industry. His reason was a sense of exhaustion and a strong desire to focus on his young family.

Previously, he expressed that he had been longing for dinner gatherings with them. He contemplated, “I don’t think I could endure another six, seven, or eight years of this. My children will mature and I might never have the chance to truly understand them.

Alfonso Cuarón took charge as the director for Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, while Mike Newell stepped in to direct Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire afterward.

In these films – The Order of the Phoenix, The Half-Blood Prince, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows parts 1 and 2 – David Yates assumed directing duties.

Columbus mentioned that the TV series allowed for earlier cut storylines to gain prominence, stating: ‘What’s fantastic about it is that with the first, second, and third book, we aimed to include everything. We wanted to showcase all of that on screen, but we didn’t get the chance before.’

The director, too, voiced criticism towards author J.K. Rowling, who has been labeled as having bigoted views regarding transgender matters, and who is currently engaged in the development of the upcoming series.

As a devoted fan, I’ve always admired Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson not just for their exceptional acting skills in the Harry Potter series, but also for their compassionate voices off-screen. They have previously expressed support for transgender individuals and publicly disagreed with J.K. Rowling’s views on certain matters related to transgender rights.

It’s important to distinguish the creator from their creation sometimes… I definitely don’t share her views. However, it’s unfortunate.” The HBO series is scheduled for release in 2027.

After several months of anticipation, the long-awaited announcement of the main child actors was made, with Dominic McLaughlin taking on the role of Harry, Arabella Stanton portraying Hermione Granger, and Alastair cast as Ron Weasley.

Last year, during the casting call that attracted over 30,000 actors, a talented group of three young performers were chosen, prior to the official announcement of Ron’s siblings: Fred, George, Percy (Ruari Spooner), and Ginny.

In the Harry Potter films, the original Weasley siblings were played by several actors.

In this story, Bonnie Wright portrayed Ginny Weasley, Chris Rankin took on the role of Percy Weasley, James and Oliver Phelps were cast as Fred and George Weasley respectively.

As an ardent admirer, I can’t contain my excitement! I’m thrilled to share that J.K. Rowling herself will be taking on the role of an executive producer for this highly anticipated series. HBO has revealed that she’s been deeply immersed in the project, ensuring a meticulous adaptation of her beloved books. In other words, we can anticipate a faithful rendition that truly honors the original works!

Instead, let’s rephrase it this way: Last year, there was a significant disagreement between her and the three rising movie stars, concerning her stance on transgender women. To this day, she has expressed that she might not accept an apology from them, even if they were to offer one publicly.

In a 2020 essay criticizing transgender identity as misogynistic and regressive, the three actors who gained fame and wealth from their roles in the Harry Potter movies issued statements expressing support for transgender rights.

In early 2027, it’s planned that Harry Potter will make its debut on HBO in the U.S., starting off with an initial season consisting of eight episodes.

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2025-08-26 00:18