It's hard to believe it's been 25 years since Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone first enchanted audiences on the big screen. Released in 2001, the film not only brought J.K. Rowling's magical world to life but also introduced us to the iconic trio of Daniel Radcliffe as Harry, Emma Watson as Hermione, and Rupert Grint as Ron. Directed by Chris Columbus, that movie set the stage for a beloved film franchise that captivated a generation.

This quarter-century anniversary in 2026 arrives at a fascinating time for the wizarding world. With the HBO Original series, a faithful adaptation of the books, now officially in production, fans have more reasons than ever to celebrate. The new series, which began filming for its first season in the summer of 2025 at Leavesden Studios, is set to wrap by mid-2026, with a confirmed release window of early 2027.

While the original films hold a special place in our hearts, the upcoming HBO series promises a deeper dive into the source material, spanning seven seasons over a 10-year production cycle. Fans are eagerly anticipating how showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod will bring new dimensions to the story. The confirmed cast, including Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, among others like John Lithgow as Dumbledore and Paapa Essiedu as Snape, showcases a fresh approach. This anniversary is a wonderful moment to reflect on where it all began and how the magic is set to continue for a new generation.