The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of the most beloved franchises in history. Starting with the books written by J.K. Rowling, it expanded into movies and video games. The brand now further grows with the inclusion of an upcoming live-action HBO series. This new program is a remake, bringing back the saga’s memorable stories and characters. The latest news revolving around it involves the supposed actor for Rubeus Hagrid. But who is the individual seen as ideal for portraying this iconic character?
Harry Potter Coming to HBO
Established in 1998, the Wizarding World focuses on its primary protagonist, Harry Potter. His story starts with discovering he’s a wizard and a magical world celebrity. Hogwarts, a prestigious magic school, invites him to attend. From that point on, Harry becomes involved in wild adventures while attending school. He also undergoes the coming-of-age trials seen in every teen drama across the media. But he faces his biggest challenge when an evil sorcerer threatens to conquer the world.
This epic saga debuted in literature and came to life within the eight-film series. It’s also retold in video games based on the movies, albeit with player-driven gameplay. However, the narrative is returning in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter television show. New fans will experience this iconic fable, while older ones can relive the nostalgia. A key difference is it’ll likely adapt the story in ways the flicks did not. And, of course, brand-new actors will portray the iconic characters Rowling worked hard to create.
Nick Frost Joins the Show
Talented performers like John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, and Paapa Essiedu are supposedly joining the show. There is even chatter that the producers have cast someone as the antagonist, Lord Voldemort. But news has risen that the prominent role of Rubeus Hagrid has found its match. Hagrid is the keeper of keys and grounds at Hogwarts, in case you didn’t know. He later becomes the school’s newest Care for Magical Creatures professor. But above all, he’s one of Harry Potter’s closest friends and father figures.
As for the actor, Nick Frost has been deemed the perfect choice to play Hagrid. The renowned British comedy celebrity is famous for starring in Shaun of the Dead. He also is set to appear in the upcoming How To Train Your Dragon live-action remake. Nevertheless, Frost can blend comedic timing, strong emotions, and lovable silliness perfectly. These qualities are what longtime Harry Potter fans expect to see from any Hagrid depiction. And they are what has people hoping negotiations go through and Frost joins the cast.
Final Thoughts
Since I was a kid, I’ve followed the Harry Potter franchise almost religiously. My fondest memories involve reading the books in school and then watching the movies. I’m excited to see how the HBO series compares to the films. Regarding Nick Frost, I’ve only seen him in the science fiction comedy flick Paul. It’ll be interesting if he can fill the shoes of the late Robbie Coltrane. The upcoming Harry Potter series has no known premiere date but should debut in 2027.
