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Further casting confirmed for HBO Original Harry Potter series including Molly Weasley, Draco & Lucius Malfoy, Mr & Mrs Dursley and more

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Cast for Harry Potter HBO series

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First Row L-R: Katherine Parkinson, Lox Pratt, Johnny Flynn Second Row L-R: Leo Earley, Alessia Leoni, Sienna Moosah, Third Row L-R: Bel Powley, Daniel Rigby, Bertie Carvel

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Our wizarding world family is getting larger by the day. 

We can now confirm a new slew of fantastic talent confirmed for the HBO Original Harry Potter series, from witches and wizards to a couple of Muggles! 

Molly Weasley will be played by BAFTA winner Katherine Parkinson, while Draco and Lucius Malfoy will be played by Lox Pratt and Johnny Flynn respectively. 

Joining the cast of Hogwarts students are Leo Earley, who will play Seamus Finnigan, while Alessia Leoni takes on fellow Gryffindor housemate, Parvati Patil. Sienna Moosah will play Parvati’s best friend, Lavender Brown.

Bel Powley has been cast as Petunia Dursley with BAFTA winner Daniel Rigby joining her as Vernon Dursley. 

And finally, we have a new Minister for Magic! Double Olivier and Tony Award winning performer Bertie Carvel will be portraying Cornelius Fudge.

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*First Row L-R: Katherine Parkinson, Lox Pratt, Johnny Flynn Second Row L-R: Leo Earley, Alessia Leoni, Sienna Moosah, Third Row L-R: Bel Powley, Daniel Rigby, Bertie Carvel*

These latest casting announcements [are in good company](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/everything-we-know-about-the-harry-potter-tv-series-so-far), joining the likes of John Lithgow (Albus Dumbledore), Janet McTeer (Minerva McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (Severus Snape), Nick Frost (Rubeus Hagrid), Luke Thallon (Quirinus Quirrell) and Paul Whitehouse (Argus Filch). 

Recently, we announced [the main trio’s casting too](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/harry-ron-and-hermione-casting-revealed-for-harry-potter-hbo-original-series): Dominic McLaughlin plays Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton is Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley will be played by Alastair Stout.

Keep your eyes peeled for more names and news as we have it. [Or sign up to our newsletter to get updates straight to your inbox!](https://www.harrypotter.com/register)

We’re getting seriously excited over here already! 

***

About the series: The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter books by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. Each season will bring Harry Potter to new and existing audiences, streaming exclusively on HBO Max where it’s available, including in upcoming launch markets Germany, Italy and the UK. The original classic films will remain available to watch around the world.

Credits: The series is written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner. Mark Mylod will executive produce and direct multiple episodes of the series for HBO in association with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television. The series is executive produced by J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, and Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman of Heyday Films. 


Tom Felton to play Draco Malfoy in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Broadway

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Nope, your internet has not gone wobbly: this is really happening. 

Tom Felton, who played Harry’s nemesis Draco Malfoy in all eight of the original Harry Potter films, is to play the character once again as a grown-up. In fact, Tom will be exactly the same age as the character is in the play.

For 19 weeks only, you can catch Tom don the iconic blond wig from 11th November 2025 to 22nd March 2026 at [New York’s Lyric Theatre.](https://broadway.harrypottertheplay.com/)

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To see Tom’s big Broadway debut, fans can [sign up with the Cursed Child website for first access to tickets](https://broadway.harrypottertheplay.com), which will unlock entry to the first pre-sale on Tuesday, 10th June at 11 a.m. ET. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Thursday, 12th June at 11 a.m. ET.

You can also [register with the Harry Potter Fan Club](https://www.harrypotter.com/register) to get a pre-sale link drop straight into your inbox on 11th June. Oh, and remember to do so before 11.59 PM ET on 10th June if you want in. Draco is waiting! 

It has been 15 years since the actor last played the conflicted Slytherin, and now, Tom examines the character in adulthood, with the play set 19 years after the events of *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*. On the casting, Tom described the feeling as “surreal” and was “thrilled” to be taking part in the show.

“Being a part of the Harry Potter films has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” he said.

“Joining this production will be a full-circle moment for me, because when I begin performances in *Cursed Child* this fall, I’ll also be the exact age Draco is in the play. It’s surreal to be stepping back into his shoes – and of course his iconic platinum blond hair – and I am thrilled to be able to see his story through and to share it with the greatest fan community in the world. I look forward to joining this incredible company and being a part of the Broadway community.”

No, we’re not crying!

Producer duo Sonia Friedman and Callender added that they felt “incredibly fortunate” to have Tom join the family. 

“Tom Felton’s performance as a young Draco Malfoy on screen left an indelible impression on Harry Potter fans around the world," they said in a joint statement. "His role as Draco undeniably shaped one of the canon’s most nuanced characters. More than just a foil to Harry, Draco was a portrait of parental pressure, internal conflict, and reluctant vulnerability. Over the years, this character arc has become a symbol of how people can grow beyond the choices one was raised to make."

"As fans of the wizarding world ourselves, we feel incredibly fortunate to welcome Tom into our *Cursed Child* family on Broadway and to offer Harry Potter fans around the globe the once-in-a-lifetime excitement of seeing him reprise this iconic role, this time on-stage in New York City. This moment is powerful on many levels Tom will be making his Broadway debut and is marking a full-circle moment for not just himself, but for Draco too."

"He gets to inhabit Draco once more, but this time as an adult facing the relatable challenges of parenthood and the complicated meaning of legacy. It’s not lost on us that this is a cultural moment charged with nostalgia, evolution, and emotion. Tom’s return to Hogwarts bridges generations of fans and breathes new life into a beloved story. We’re beyond thrilled to welcome Tom back 'home' but also into a new family: our Broadway company. We can’t wait to see him inhabit this role once again with the same depth, gravity, and humanity he has always brought to Draco.”

Our father (and mother, brothers, sisters, cousins, uncles, aunties, sons, daughters, friends and any other extended family members) will certainly hear about this!

***

__Some details on signing up for the pre-sale:__ 

[Sign up](https://broadway.harrypottertheplay.com) to the *Cursed Child* website today to get ready for the pre-sale for this incredibly special set of shows. Everyone who joins the list before 5:59PM PM ET on 9th June will receive a pre-sale ticket link via email. This email will arrive in your inbox by 9AM ET. 

Upon clicking the email link, you will enter a digital waiting room. At 11AM ET, you’ll be assigned a random place in line – so be sure not to click away! 

__Harry Potter Fan Club members__ – you’ll be able to sign up for early access. Make sure you’re [subscribed to our newsletter](https://www.harrypotter.com/register) before 10th June - then you can snap up pre-sale tickets on 11th June. Again, keep an eagle eye on that inbox.

And for those that didn’t notice their Remembrall glowing for these dates – don’t worry, there’s also a general pre-sale on 12th June to look out for.

***


Harry, Hermione and Ron casting revealed for Harry Potter HBO Original Series 

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Here they are! Your brand-new Harry, Hermione and Ron – who will star as the three best friends in the upcoming TV show – have now been revealed. 

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Francesca Gardiner (showrunner, executive producer) and Mark Mylod (director of multiple episodes, executive producer) spoke of the casting after seeing “tens of thousands” of children audition for the parts.

“After an extraordinary search led by casting directors Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann, we are delighted to announce we have found our Harry, Hermione, and Ron. The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen. We would like to thank all the tens of thousands of children who auditioned. It's been a real pleasure to discover the plethora of young talent out there.”

The open casting call for the trio opened in September last year, and in December, [Mark Mylod revealed they had already seen 30,000 budding young actors](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/production-details-and-location-revealed-for-harry-potter-tv-series) trying out for the coveted roles.

The three young actors will join a [plethora of TV and film stars](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/hogwarts-staff-members-confirmed-for-harry-potter-hbo-series) that are beginning to make up the full cast of the series. They will combine forces with John Lithgow as Professor Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Professor Snape, Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch and Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell.

Hogwarts is beginning to look pretty full indeed. 

***

[The series](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/everything-we-know-about-the-harry-potter-tv-series-so-far) will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved “Harry Potter” book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. The series will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters “Harry Potter” fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring “Harry Potter” and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.

The series is written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner. Mark Mylod will executive produce and direct multiple episodes of the series for HBO in association with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television. The series is executive produced by J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, and Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman of Heyday Films.

***

__The Harry Potter TV series will be a HBO Original and will premiere on HBO Max. [Learn more about HBO Max right here, and see if it's available in your territory here.](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/how-to-stream-harry-potter-wherever-you-are)__

Stay up to date with the latest Wizarding World news here. Faster than an owl and more accurate than the Daily Prophet.

Get the latest Harry Potter news here. Faster than an owl and more accurate than the Daily Prophet

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Check out these new Harry Potter-themed pinball machines 

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How cool are these? These collectors' edition pinball machines are absolutely covered in wizarding world goodness, courtesy of Jersey Jack Pinball.

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Flip your way to success with these three distinct editions: the Wizard's Edition, the Arcade Edition and the Collector's Edition - the latter of which comes complete with an exclusive art package created by the Harry Potter film's design team, [MinaLima.](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/did-you-spot-these-minalima-details-in-the-harry-potter-films)

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The devil's in the details here: you'll be able to find all of your Harry Potter favourites within the pinball machines, from iconic characters to the Deathly Hallow symbols to cauldrons and beyond. Travel the 13 paths of the moving Grand Staircase, take to the sky in the Quidditch Upper Playfield, battle Villainous Death Eaters, play through the iconic scenes from all eight films, and so much more.

Developed by renowned designer Eric Meunier, featuring sound design by industry legend David Thiel and voice work by award-winning actor Marc Silk, the pinball machines span all eight Harry Potter films in one immersive gameplay experience.

You'll need Seeker-esque reflexes to conquer this new wizarding world challenge!

__Learn more about [Jersey Jack Pinball at the official website](https://www.harrypotter.com/linkout?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fjerseyjackpinball.com%3Futm_source%3Dwwd_web%26utm_medium%3Dcp%26utm_campaign%3Dpinball).__

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Warner Bros. Studio Tour London introduces "An Audience With" Q&A evenings with Harry Potter filmmakers

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Get ready for a unique evening full of filmmaking secrets, courtesy of our friends at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Aptly called 'An Audience With' - fans can sit down to hear larger than life stories from Martin Bayfield - AKA Rubeus Hagrid's stunt double, who will be joined by a different Harry Potter filmmaker for each of the special evenings. 

Alongside the Q&A itself, you'll be treated to a grazing dinner in the Great Hall, a cocktail or a mocktail, and a chance to explore the full tour after the event. 

Here's the schedule!

🎬 1st August – Paul Harris (Choreographer)<br>
🎬 8th August – Pierre Bohanna (Head Prop-Maker)<br>
🎬 15th August – Gary Tomkins (Art Director)<br>
🎬 22nd August – Laurent Guinci (Costume Designer) and Lisa Tomblin (Chief Hairdresser)<br>
🎬 29th August – John Richardson (Special Effects Supervisor)<br>

You'll even have your chance to ask your own questions, so get your thinking caps on.

You can check out the official [Warner Bros. Studio Tour London website](https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/whats-on/an-audience-with-the-filmmakers/?utm_medium=web&utm_source=wizardingworld&utm_campaign=an-audience-with) for a full itinerary and learn how to snap-up tickets, which go on sale 10th June.

__An Audience With events are open to guests 12+ only. Running every Friday evening from 1st to 29th August - get ready to learn about all the movie magic.__

LEGO® Harry Potter™ reveal their summer range: from Herbology Class to Fawkes the Phoenix

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[Take a closer look](https://www.lego.com/product/hogwarts-castle-the-main-tower-76454)

The biggest minifigure-scale model yet of The Main Hogwarts Tower, this play-and-display set includes a trapdoor to escape from Fluffy and a swivelling staircase leading to Dumbledore’s Office. We love the drama of it!

## Hogwarts™ Castle: Herbology Class

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[GROW your LEGO collection](https://www.lego.com/product/hogwarts-castle-herbology-class-76445) 

Embrace your green thumb with this adorable Herbology classroom playset, complete with LEGO Mandrakes and Neville Longbottom, Hermione Granger and Professor Sprout minifigures. The buildable greenhouse opens up to reveal the whole scene, resplendent with magical plants.

## Book Nook: Hogwarts™ Express

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[Choo choo choose this one?](https://www.lego.com/product/book-nook-hogwarts-express-76450)

This buildable [Hogwarts Express](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hogwarts-express) set is for all the bookworms out there – you can display the iconic steam engine on your bookshelves to hold together all of your favourite tomes. 

Alongside the scarlet train itself, you’ll find a selection of LEGO figures: Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and their pets Hedwig and Scabbers.

## Chomping Monster Book of Monsters


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[Snap it up!](https://www.lego.com/product/chomping-monster-book-of-monsters-76449)

This LEGO creation comes with an extra bite – it’s your very own Monster Book of Monsters, now immortalised in LEGO bricks. And oh yes, the clue is in the title here: this one actually chomps. Thanks to its secret wheels and a pull-back function, you can watch in awe as your Care of Magical Creatures textbook goes on a crunching crusade.

An adorable Neville Longbottom minifigure (holding his own teeny tiny version of the book!!) is also included.

## Privet Drive: Aunt Marge’s Visit 


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[Rescue Marge!](https://www.lego.com/product/privet-drive-aunt-marge-s-visit-76451)

Look at her go! This set immortalises the moment that Harry accidentally 'blows up' his callous aunt during *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.*

Minifigures (alongside a floating Marge, naturally) include Vernon Dursley, Petunia Dursley, Dudley Dursley, Harry Potter - and even Ripper the dog!

## Fawkes™: Dumbledore's Phoenix

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[Pick him up here.](https://www.lego.com/product/fawkes-dumbledore-s-phoenix-76448)

We've always been jealous of Professor Dumbledore's fiery companion, Fawkes. But now - you can have your very own phoenix in YOUR office too!

Complete with a brick-built Sword of Gryffindor and Sorting Hat, this set perfectly complements the iconic scenes from *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.*

***

Okay, we love all of these sets so much. How are we supposed to choose? Accio more Galleons, please? 

__You can visit the [main Harry Potter LEGO hub](https://www.lego.com/en-gb/themes/harry-potter) to check out all of the magical creations.__

*Products referred to in this article are offered for sale by The LEGO® Group and are subject to availability. Before purchasing from LEGO, you will need to agree to their terms of purchase which you can find on the LEGO website. Any issues with your purchase should be directed to customer services teams at LEGO – you can find contact information on their website.*  

Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery reveals Hogwarts Harvest feature for 2025  

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Get green-fingered with Hogwarts Mystery’s latest fun addition, which invites you to potter about (pun absolutely intended) in a special greenhouse and nurture magical plants for rewards.

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The unlockable feature (available to Year 2 students who have completed Chapter 1, Part 5) invites you to “The Outskirts Greenhouse” at Professor Dumbledore and Professor Sprout’s request. There, you’ll serve as the greenhouse’s official caretaker, where you can help harvest magical plants and pick up exclusive goodies.

The trick to gardening is patience: in your special greenhouse, you’ll have to water and fertilise your plants regularly to help them grow. You’ll come across some familiar magical flora from the Harry Potter stories, such as Mimbulus Mimbletonia and Venomous Tentacula, among others.  
There will be more plants and more customisation options coming soon to keep growing your greenhouse throughout the year. Stay tuned!  

*** 

This June is also bringing budding, summer romance to Hogwarts with a Pride outfit giveaway, starting on 1st June, and a romantic, new Special Adventure to look forward to. A new Hogwarts Diary event also brings exciting new rewards to unlock as you race to find Salazar Slytherin’s secret treasure.  

It’s all to come!  

[Check the official website to download or simply learn more about this fabulous mobile game.](https://www.harrypotterhogwartsmystery.com/)

A closer look at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

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[Snap up tickets or learn more about the attractions - right this way!](https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/gb/theme-parks/epic-universe?utm_source=wwd_web&utm_medium=newsarticle&utm_campaign=epicuniverse&utm_content=wwohp) 

## Quite an epic entrance

Your portal to five different immersive worlds, including Celestial Park, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, and Dark Universe. And of course... The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic! Even just the entrance looks pretty! 

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## Le Cirque Arcanus

Roll up, roll up: this boombastic wizarding circus is inspired by scenes from *Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald*. You'll be in for quite a show. Expect live performers, amazing puppetry, dazzling special effects and more.

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## Travel via the Métro-Floo 

A tres chic way to get around... this Parisian Metro station is inspired by the real life subways you see in the French capital. Take this route to traverse through wizarding Paris into the Ministry of Magic area.

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## The stylings of Wizarding Paris 

Wind back the clock to the 1920s and enjoy a number of gorgeous shops and cafes, all inspired by the look and feel of Paris in the past. 

Soak in all the little details and even pick up a wand to try out some interactive experiences on the streets.

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## Encounter fantastic magical creatures

Channel your inner Magizoologist and check out some beautiful creations, as seen in the Fantastic Beasts series. We're particularly enamoured by this fluffy (yet deadly!) [Zouwu.](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/creatures/zouwu)

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## Absorb every detail at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

From the brickwork to the statues to every magical prop... this is the Ministry of Magic, the UK wizarding government headquarters you will know all-too-well from the Harry Potter series. We loved spotting these Auror portraits, for example - especially a welcome homage to [Neville's brave parents.](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/unsung-heroes-of-harry-potter-stories-frank-and-alice-longbottom) 

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## Niffler in the window!

This is not a drill! As seen in the first Fantastic Beasts movie, we're always thrilled to bump into these adorable fuzzy thieves. Talk about taking 'window shopping' literally.

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## Search through the merch

Epic Universe visitors will get to browse exclusive goodies, created especially for the park. From international school robes to Ministry of Magic paraphernalia, we're in purple paradise with this collection.

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## J'adore la musique

As the great Professor Dumbledore once said, music is "a magic beyond all we do here" - and he wasn't wrong. In 1920s Wizarding Paris, enjoy the retro pleasures of this jazzy band and watch out for a special appearance from a lovely Puffskein called Plume! Our hearts!

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## A moment of appreciation for this architecture

The '20s Parisian spirit of many of the cafes, bars and shops you'll discover is truly breathtaking. Be sure to take in the marble details, paintings and romantic lights. You'll genuinely feel like you've been transported to another life!

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__The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic is now open at Universal Epic Universe. Visit the [official website](https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/gb/theme-parks/epic-universe?utm_source=wwd_web&utm_medium=newsarticle&utm_campaign=epicuniverse&utm_content=wwohp) for more information and tickets!__

Inside the new Warner Bros. Studio Tour London feature celebrating 20 years of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

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__UPDATE:__ To celebrate the opening of Making of Champions, a full-scale (not to mention scaly!) Hungarian Horntail dragon is going on a UK tour! [Fly this way for more details.](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/hungarian-horntail-takes-over-london-for-studio-tour-summer-stunt)

Can you believe this November will mark the 20th anniversary of *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* being released in cinemas? Two whole decades since we first watched the champions be chosen? Luckily, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London has the perfect way to celebrate this milestone with their brand-new feature dedicated to the fourth film.  

Last night we had the chance to admire all the additions to the Studio Tour – from filmmaking secrets to creating our own origami dragon – here are just a handful of our highlights…

## It’s all about those first impressions
The moment we stepped into the Studio Tour, we were transported back to the magic of *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* – from the champions in the lobby to the Experience Corridor that left us feeling like we were in the maze from the third task. And that was all before we got to witness the [Great Hall](/fact-file/locations/the-great-hall) in all its fourth film glory – bringing [Mad-Eye Moody’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/alastor-mad-eye-moody) arrival to life with dazzling lights and sound effects. 


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## We uncovered some secrets at the new Backlot Stage 
This was a new addition that we couldn’t wait to see – and it didn’t disappoint. For the first time ever, the Studio Tour have introduced their new Backlot Stage that showcases the Secrets of Special Effects. If you’ve ever wondered just how filmmakers were able to create a [Hungarian Horntail](/fact-file/creatures/hungarian-horntail) or film a task that takes place entirely underwater, you won’t want to miss this. Honestly, it was one of the highlights of our evening. We don’t want to spoil the magic, but we will say that plenty of behind-the-scenes secrets were spilled… and you’ll never look at the second Triwizard task in the same way again. 


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## [Beauxbatons](/fact-file/locations/beauxbatons-academy) and [Durmstrang](/fact-file/locations/durmstrang-institute) show their school spirit
Who can forget the scene where we first met the other two schools competing for the [Triwizard Cup](/fact-file/objects/the-triwizard-cup)? Their choreographed routines? Iconic. Yesterday, we got to relive that moment with a demonstration reminiscent of their arrival – and you definitely wouldn’t call their dance moves ‘Krum-my’! We always loved their school robes (they’re better than any [Muggle](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) uniform) and were pleased to learn more about what went into creating their memorable looks. 


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## Do you dare to put your name in the Goblet of Fire?
Keep hold of your Activity Passport – it could be the key to your own eternal glory. In the wand room we plucked up the courage to put our own names into the [Goblet of Fire](/fact-file/objects/the-goblet-of-fire) (using a special page from the Passport). Are you worthy of becoming a champion? Ok, you might not end up in an actual [Triwizard Tournament](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament), but other rewards await…


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## A few familiar faces
Dotted around the Studio Tour were plenty of easter eggs for fourth film fans and we had a lot of fun trying to pick out all the details. We spotted [Harry](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) and [Hagrid](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rubeus-hagrid) in the [Forbidden Forest](/fact-file/locations/the-forbidden-forest) – recreating the scene where Hagrid revealed a few *important* first task details. [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) poised and ready to practice his dance moves in the Gryffindor Boys’ Dormitory – we’ll always give him top marks for enthusiasm. And even [Rita Skeeter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rita-skeeter) with her poison pen (ok, Quick-Quotes Quill) – her stories were horrible, but her outfits were spectacular.

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## We got to make our own dragon!
Who doesn’t love a dragon? We know we’ve always admired these fearsome beasts. On [Platform 9 ¾](/fact-file/locations/platform-nine-and-three-quarters) we had the chance to put our origami skills to the test – creating a dragon of our very own to bring home! Unlike the Hungarian Horntail that Harry faced, the worst thing this dragon could do is give us a papercut not accidentally incinerate us. 


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## Speaking of dragons… 
On Monday, London had a fiery friend roaming the streets in celebration of the launch of the Studio Tour’s new Triwizard Tournament feature. Did you spot the Hungarian Horntail in transit – whizzing past landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and King’s Cross Station before returning to its rightful home at the Studio Tour? Did you witness its fearsome roar as it tried to escape its chains? This huge (1.3 tonne), animatronic dragon was quite the spectacle. Don’t worry if you missed it – you can [read all about this dragon adventure right here](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/hungarian-horntail-takes-over-london-for-studio-tour-summer-stunt).


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Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions will run from 15th May – 8th September and all new features are included in the ticket price. 

For more information or to book tickets, don’t forget to [check out the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London website.
](https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/whats-on/triwizard/?utm_medium=web&utm_source=wizardingworld&utm_campaign=triwizard-tournament-launch-2025)

Pre-order Hogwarts Legacy on Nintendo Switch 2 

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Yes, gaming aficionados amongst you will be all too aware of the upcoming launch of Nintendo Switch 2, the evolution of the Nintendo Switch, which first launched in 2017.

On 12th May, Hogwarts Legacy for Switch 2 will be [available for pre-order right here](https://go.wbgames.com/HLPurchase) -  and you can even check out this handy comparison video to see how the game will look on the new console. 

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/7XWbbe2WCZs?si=L7n2Qw0qcgsRyXb0?rel=0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>

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How on earth you fit an entire wizarding castle into such a tiny thing continues to bewitch us, but perhaps the good folks down at WB Games and Avalanche have mastered the Undetectable Extension Charm.  

*** 

Here's the changes to look out for if you want to play Hogwarts Legacy on Nintendo Switch 2. 

## Improved Visuals

Experience deeper immersion with significantly upgraded graphics, including DLSS support, improved lighting, shadows, animation quality, anti-aliasing, just to name a few. 

## Smoother Traversal

Seamlessly traverse the open-world and cross into Hogsmeade and its shops without loading screens! 

## Increased Flight Speed

Soar over the Hogwarts grounds and beyond with smoother frame rates and faster load
times thanks to performance upgrades on Nintendo Switch 2. 

## Improved Resolution

Experience improved resolution of up to 1440p and HDR in docked mode with a compatible TV and up to 1080p in handheld mode.

## Joy-Con 2 Controllers as Mouse Support

Play how you want with the option to use the Joy-Con 2 Controllers as Mouse functionality. 

We’ll keep you posted when Hogwarts Legacy becomes available for Nintendo Switch 2 – but for now, you can learn more about the open-world game at our [official hub](https://www.harrypotter.com/hogwarts-legacy) – and even learn how to [link accounts with us!](https://www.harrypotter.com/legacyconnect)

Hungarian Horntail takes over London to celebrate the Studio Tour's new Triwizard Tournament feature - and will soon to go on tour!

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__UPDATE: Today we can reveal that the Hungarian Horntail is going on tour in the UK! Check out if you can expect to see the fiery fiend at a location near you right here.__

[Visit the official Warner Bros. Studio Tour site for more details.](https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/whats-on/dragon-tour/?utm_medium=web&utm_source=wizardingworld&utm_campaign=dragon-tour)

20th May – London (Secret location to be revealed) | 8am – 7pm <br>

22nd May – Bullring & Grand Central, Birmingham | 10am – 9pm <br>

24th May – Trafford Centre, Manchester | 10am – 9pm <br>

26th May – Briggate, Leeds | 9am – 8pm <br> 

28th May – Liverpool ONE, Liverpool | 10am – 9pm <br>

30th May (Afternoon only) – Castle Street, Edinburgh | 1pm – 9pm <br>

31st May – Castle Street, Edinburgh | 9am – 8pm <br>

***

Where's Hagrid when you need him?! 

Londoners and tourists alike were treated to a full-scale (not to mention, scaly) dragon display in the UK capital this week, as a 25 foot animatronic Hungarian Horntail was seen traversing through Westminster Bridge, the Houses of Parliament and King’s Cross Station. 


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To celebrate the 20th anniversary of *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is ushering in the summer with their new [Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions feature](https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/whats-on/triwizard?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=wizardingworld&utm_campaign=triwizard-tournament-2025), focusing on the historic competition that takes place at Hogwarts during the fourth Harry Potter film. And yes, as you might have guessed, that involves a certain dragon-themed task.

Thankfully, unlike the dragons Harry and his fellow Triwizard Champions had to face, this one was safely still in his box. Well, mostly.

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Harry Potter filmmaker and Animatronic Designer, Joe Scott, designed the dragon, replicating the creature in the film, complete with moving head, mouth and eyes, and sound effects.

The skilled recreation of the Hungarian Horntail was carefully crafted over 750 hours, using materials that included 25kg of fiberglass. The team first created a series of detailed sketches and CGI mock-ups, before Sculptors, Carpenters and Scenic Artists meticulously built the dragon's head, which was 3D printed using a scan of the original beast from the film.

A total of 119 spikes were individually applied to garnish the dragon’s head and tail, taking 265 painstaking hours, whilst 38 razor sharp teeth were 3D printed in resin to create bite in the creature’s animatronic mouth. 

Sounds like...quite the mouthful! 

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The [Hungarian Horntail](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/creatures/hungarian-horntail) is known as one of the most dangerous-ever dragon breeds in the wizarding world - and also happened to be the one that Harry Potter was tasked with overcoming for the first Triwizard Tournament task. Figures!

[You can learn much more about how the Triwizard Tournament came to life at the Studio Tour this summer right here](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/warner-bros-studio-tour-london-launches-goblet-of-fire-feature-for-2025) - coming to London and Tokyo. You're bound to have a roar-some time.

***

__Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions will run from 15th May – 8th September and all new features are included in the ticket price.__

__[Soar along to the official website to learn more!](https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/whats-on/triwizard?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=wizardingworld&utm_campaign=triwizard-tournament-2025)__

Bloomsbury announce new theme for Harry Potter Book Day 2025: Friends and Foes!

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Grab some round spectacles or some white-Voldemort-style face paint... this year's Harry Potter Book Day theme celebrates the light and shade of the wizarding world. 

As such, Bloomsbury's event kit for 2025 will be packed full of creative and exciting activities that celebrate the deep friendships in the Harry Potter books - as well as the Dark feuds and more deadly characters... 

Harry Potter Book Day is a chance for fans around the globe to celebrate J.K. Rowling’s iconic series with events, parties and other festivities. Every year, Bloomsbury creates a special free, downloadable event kit, jam-packed with more decoration, food, costume, activity and game ideas than you can shake a wand at! Of course, you can use the event kit or create your own magical activities for the day too - get creative and have fun. 

[Last year](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/bloomsbury-reveal-harry-potter-book-day-2024) saw 17,000 event kit registrations from 131 different territories – Harry Potter Book Day is truly a global celebration for everyone. 

Harry Potter World Book Day Teaser | 2025

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So, whether you are a bookshop, library, school or simply a group of friends wanting to celebrate - get involved. The event kit has activities for readers of all ages, and is suitable for lifelong superfans to young readers just beginning their Harry Potter journey.  

Visit [www.HarryPotterBookDay.com](https://www.HarryPotterBookDay.com) to sign up. The event kit and other assets will be released later in the summer.  

## And a reminder for schools ...!   

A special virtual headline event hosted by Harry Potter film star Evanna Lynch is still available, together with classroom resources.   Created in partnership with Twinkl and Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, this completely free, 35-minute video includes a: 

  •  Magical Places creative writing session from the Great Hall 

  •  How To Draw Hogwarts session with Evanna and Harry Potter illustrator Jonny Duddle 

  •  Spellcasting class from platform nine and three-quarters 

Perfect for children age 7+, the lesson and resources can be found on [Twinkl’s website.](https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/twinkl-partnerships/harry-potter/book-day)

***

We can't wait to *Accio party hat* and join in the celebrations!

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