'Harry Potter' Series Finds Its James and Lily Potter, Adds Harry Gilby as Charlie Weasley

The upcoming HBO adaptation of 'Harry Potter' has expanded its cast, with Jasper Talbot and Hannah Chinn joining the series as James and Lily Potter, Harry Potter’s parents. Actor Harry Gilby has also been cast as Charlie Weasley, a member of the Weasley family, according to Variety.

James and Lily Potter appeared in the original 'Harry Potter' films through flashbacks, photographs and magical manifestations. Charlie Weasley, however, is a minor character in the books and does not appear in the film adaptations.

The first season of the television series is scheduled to premiere on HBO on December 25, 2026. Meanwhile, the second season, based on 'Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets', the second book in author J.K. Rowling’s fantasy series, is currently being filmed at Leavesden Studios outside London.

The lead trio comprises Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. The supporting cast includes John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom and Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy.

The second season will introduce additional characters, with 'Game of Thrones' star Kit Harington set to play Gilderoy Lockhart. Other additions include Bonnie Hill as Ginny Weasley, Lenny Rush as Dobby, Billy Barratt as Tom Riddle, Rafe Spall as Arthur Weasley, Molly Hewitt-Richards as Moaning Myrtle and Jasper Ambrose as Colin Creevey.

Written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner, the series revisits the magical world of Harry Potter, who discovers his identity as a wizard after receiving an admission letter from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

At Hogwarts, Harry develops friendships and embarks on adventures while uncovering dark secrets within the school’s enchanted walls. The story also follows his growing courage as he faces dangerous challenges and confronts the darkest wizard of all.