“Dominic steps into the role of a lifetime not just as an actor, but as the heart of a new generation’s magical journey.”
HBO unveiled the first official image from its upcoming Harry Potter series on July 14. But the spotlight wasn’t on the set , it was on Dominic McLaughlin, the 11-year-old Scottish actor chosen to portray the Boy Who Lived.
This image marks the start of a new era, both for the Wizarding World and for a young performer about to grow up in front of millions.
🧒 A Rising Talent from Scotland
Dominic McLaughlin was born in 2013 or 2014 in Scotland. Though he’s still relatively unknown to the wider public, he’s already impressed casting directors and fans alike with his natural talent and calm on-screen presence. He trains at Performance Academy Scotland and has appeared in smaller productions such as Grow and Gifted, building a foundation in drama from an early age.
HBO’s casting process for Harry Potter was extensive , spanning thousands of auditions across the UK. Despite not being a mainstream child actor, Dominic caught the attention of producers and showrunners due to his raw, unfiltered performance. In the final round of auditions, held in London, he delivered a deeply emotional scene from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, reportedly moving the creative team with his sincerity.
🎬 First Look: Dominic McLaughlin as the New Harry Potter
The first official image from HBO’s Harry Potter series, released on July 14, features Dominic McLaughlin on set at Warner Bros. Studios. Studios Leavesden — the original filming location of the Harry Potter films. Wearing the character’s signature round glasses and a Hogwarts robe, he holds the clapperboard for Episode 101, marking the beginning of production.
Fans responded quickly and positively on social media. Many praised Dominic’s resemblance to the book version of Harry, calling his look “fresh, faithful, and exciting.” Importantly, it seems the creative team is focused on honoring J.K. Rowling’s original material while building something new for a modern audience.
🎥 A Seven-Year Journey Begins
Filming officially began on July 14, 2025, under the direction of Mark Mylod, known for his work on Succession and Game of Thrones. Acclaimed cinematographer Adriano Goldman (The Crown) is behind the camera. The series will be showrun by Francesca Gardiner (His Dark Materials), with each season adapting one of the seven Harry Potter books. HBO is set to release the first season of the Harry Potter series in 2027.
This means Dominic is set to play Harry Potter for the next seven years — a role that will see him evolve from a young boy stepping into the magical world to a teenager facing complex, dark challenges. His performance will grow with him, just as Daniel Radcliffe’s did in the original film series.
🏫 Balancing Life, Studies, and Fame
While many details about Dominic’s personal life remain private — as is common for child actors — industry sources confirm that he will continue his education with on-set tutoring arranged by HBO, in line with child labor and education standards for young actors in the UK. His training continues at Performance Academy Scotland, which has supported his growth as a disciplined and expressive young performer.
Dominic’s family has not issued any public statements, but insiders suggest they are prioritizing his well-being and education throughout the project. Despite stepping into one of the most iconic roles in fantasy history, Dominic remains grounded — a quality that reportedly played a key part in his selection.
Key Takeaways
- 11-year-old Dominic McLaughlin plays Harry Potter in HBO’s new series.
- He is a Scottish actor with experience in local productions and training from Performance Academy Scotland.
- This marks his first major television role, selected from thousands of hopefuls.
- The first look image was shared on July 14, 2025, showing him in costume on set at Leavesden Studios.
- Filming began on the same day, with Mark Mylod directing Episode 101.
- The series will cover one book per season, likely spanning seven years.
- Dominic will balance filming with on-set education and drama training.
FAQ
Who is Dominic McLaughlin?
A young Scottish actor cast as Harry Potter in HBO’s new television adaptation. He is 11 years old and relatively new to screen acting.
Has he acted before?
Yes. He has performed in drama school productions and short films such as Grow and Gifted.
Where is he from?
He is originally from Scotland. Other personal details remain private, as expected for a minor.
When did filming start?
July 14, 2025, marks a significant day at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, the iconic location where the original Harry Potter films were made. This is when production began for HBO’s new Harry Potter series.
When will the show release?
The series is expected to premiere in early 2027 on HBO.
