Rupert Grint on HBO reboot has sparked curiosity among “Harry Potter” fans, especially with reports that the original film cast would not return for the new television series, which began filming this year. Recently, Grint—known for his portrayal of Ron Weasley—spoke candidly about passing the torch to a new generation and how he feels content stepping away from the magical world he helped bring to life more than two decades ago.
Following the official reveal of HBO’s “Harry Potter” reboot, attention turned to whether the original stars would be involved. Rupert Grint quickly addressed the question, describing his support for Alastair Stout, the new actor taking on the role of Ron Weasley. Sharing with the BBC, Grint highlighted the parallels he sees between Stout and himself at the start of their respective careers, noting that the upcoming series could launch Stout’s trajectory in similar fashion as it did his own in the early 2000s. Grint confirmed that he proactively reached out to Stout, offering encouragement and advice before production began:
“I wrote him a letter, before they started, passing the baton as it were … It was really just wishing him all the best with it. I had so much fun stepping into this world, and I hope he has the same experience.” — Rupert Grint, Actor
Alastair Stout, like Grint during his initial casting, is relatively unknown in Hollywood, but with the HBO reboot poised to place him at the center of a worldwide fanbase, all eyes are on his interpretation of the beloved character.
Notably, Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter, has also expressed fondness for his time in the franchise while offering similar encouragement to new actors. Earlier in the month, Radcliffe revealed he sent a letter to Dominic McLaughlin, the new Harry Potter, wishing him the best as he steps into one of cinema’s most iconic roles.
Speculation About Original Cast Members Returning
The concept of a reboot involves reimagining a familiar story for fans both new and old. With original cast members like Rupert Grint, Daniel Radcliffe, and Emma Watson now older, speculation has swirled around whether they might return as adult characters in the HBO series. Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy in the original films and recently reprised the role for the stage production
“Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,”
has only fueled hopes among long-time followers.
Addressing these rumors, Grint reflected on the idea of reappearing in the reboot and where he currently stands regarding his connection with the franchise:
“Maybe in the future. Never say never. But for now, I think as much as I loved it, I’m enjoying stepping outside of that world” — Rupert Grint, Actor
Despite these possibilities, Grint and his former co-stars have indicated reluctance to rejoin the series, preferring to support the new cast from a distance. Nonetheless, Warwick Davis will reprise his role as Professor Filius Flitwick in the upcoming adaptation, serving as a familiar link between the new and original generations of “Harry Potter” actors.
The New Cast and Series Format
The new HBO reboot will feature a fresh lineup of actors, each stepping into roles previously associated with the original film adaptations. Joining Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley are Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy, and Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom. With each original book receiving its own season, the series aims to provide a comprehensive and in-depth adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s work, differing from the eight-film format and the subsequent “Fantastic Beasts” prequel trilogy.
While the main trio from the original films—Radcliffe, Grint, and Watson—remain unlikely to return, the involvement of actors like Warwick Davis offers some continuity for audiences familiar with previous adaptations. Additionally, Tom Felton’s recent performance in the stage play
“Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”
has kept fans engaged with the possibility of cameos or connections to the original cast.
Rupert Grint’s Lasting Connection to the Franchise
Having been involved with the “Harry Potter” world since he was a teenager, Rupert Grint acknowledged the profound impact the character and the franchise continue to have on his life and career. Grint remains open about the enduring legacy of Ron Weasley and his place within it:
“It has a quite deep meaning to a lot of people of my generation, and even more to generations who are finding it now. It’s great. It gives me a lot of pride. It was such a huge thing. I don’t think I’ll ever quite step out of his shadow, but I’m fine with that.” — Rupert Grint, Actor
Though Grint is eager to move beyond the role, he recognizes the significant meaning “Harry Potter” holds for fans across multiple generations and expresses pride in his contribution, even as he supports others taking up the mantle.
The HBO reboot of “Harry Potter” has already commenced filming and is scheduled for release in 2027. With high expectations and a new ensemble cast, the next era of magical storytelling is set to begin—backed by the original stars’ encouragement and the anticipation of fans around the world.
