From the moment that the Harry Potter Illustrated Editions series launched in 2015 with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, it became a global phenomenon. Jim Kay truly captured the essence of the wizarding world with his spectacular artwork that not only included breathtaking scenes and gorgeously detailed characters but truly brought the stories to life. It’s no wonder that these editions are so beloved by fans and new readers alike.

After ten years at the helm, Jim Kay made the difficult decision to step back from the Harry Potter Illustrated Editions to focus on his mental health. The search then began to find a worthy successor to pick up the mantle and complete the journey. Today, Bloomsbury have announced that they have found that person. The multi-award-winning artist, Levi Pinfold, will illustrate the final two books in the series.

Eagle-eyed fans might have spotted Levi’s work already. He has contributed to both Bloomsbury’s Harry Potter Hogwarts House Editions and The Harry Potter Wizarding Almanac, where he used his keen eye and incredible technical ability to capture the imagination of fans worldwide.

Excited to be part of the journey, Levi has given us an insight into his vision for the next in the series of illustrated editions:

‘Being given the keys to Hogwarts and asked to explore feels exactly how it sounds… magical. These books are like old friends, and I feel incredibly lucky to attempt to share what I see in them. Visually speaking, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is like watching a firework display on the coldest, darkest of nights. That sense of wonder and awe is something I’d love to share with readers, my younger self and my own kids.’

With Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince set to be published in October 2026, releasing simultaneously with Scholastic in the US, fans will be able to see Levi’s artwork in all its splendour. For now, here is a sneak peek at what you can expect in the latest instalment of the series.

It’s clear that this series is in safe hands. The swirling mists of Dumbledore’s Pensieve. The ethereal colour palette. The intricate details such as Fawkes on his perch. Levi has certainly captured the magic of the stories.

We’re not the only ones who recognises Levi’s talent. As Jim Kay himself recalls:

‘An art director first showed me Levi’s work many years back when I was visiting a publisher. When he pulled open the drawer and I saw this beautiful piece of painting, I was blown away. His work has since then become so important to me, as he’s everything that you could wish for in an illustrator. It’s a huge comfort to know he is working on the Illustrated Editions, for which I’m so grateful, but also as a fan of both Potter and Pinfold, I’m really excited!’

With Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince set to be published next year, keep your eyes peeled as pre-order information and further details will be coming soon.

In the meantime, if you would like to start your illustrated collection or just want further information, you can find it on the Bloomsbury website.