The initial teaser for the first season of HBO’s Harry Potter series, titled Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, seems designed to evoke strong feelings of nostalgia.
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The teaser shows Harry Potter (played by Dominic McLaughlin) in the cupboard under the stairs, meeting Hermione (Arabella Stanton) and Ron (Alastair Stout) on the Hogwarts Express, and unwrapping the Nimbus 2000, though it lacks the iconic “Hedwig’s Theme.”
While there’s an initial excitement about revisiting Hogwarts, it quickly dissipates with the realization that the series exists despite plenty of other fantasy stories that could be adapted. Moreover, the Harry Potter legacy is marred by the transphobic views of its creator.
J.K. Rowling, an executive producer on the series, has consistently made harmful remarks against the trans community, recently supporting the UK’s Girlguiding ban on trans girls and criticizing Glamour UK for honoring trans women. In 2025, she introduced the J.K. Rowling Women’s Fund to support “women’s sex-based rights,” aligning with her transphobic stance. The fund is financed by her wealth largely acquired from the Harry Potter franchise, which will further expand with the HBO series.
Rowling’s views contradict the Harry Potter series’ themes of inclusivity and diversity. Despite criticism, including from fans, she remains steadfast. This casts a shadow over the Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone teaser, reducing the enthusiasm for a new visit to Hogwarts.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone premieres this Christmas on HBO and HBO Max.