As HBO’s new Harry Potter series moves into active development, one major question continues to follow the project: will any of the original film stars return? With the upcoming reboot aiming to retell the full seven-book saga across multiple seasons, the series is expected to feature an entirely new cast. Still, speculation about legacy cameos remains strong.
Some actors have weighed in. Others have stayed quiet. And a few have made their positions very clear.
Open to a Return
Rupert Grint has remained one of the more open voices when it comes to revisiting the Wizarding World. He’s acknowledged how important Ron Weasley was to him and has said he’d consider returning “if the timing was right and everyone was coming back.” While that’s unlikely in a rebooted series with an all-new cast, Grint hasn’t closed the door completely.
Tom Felton, known for playing Draco Malfoy, has been even more enthusiastic. Over the years, Felton has stayed closely connected to the fandom and continues to engage with the franchise through appearances, book projects, and interviews. He’s said he’d love to be involved in some way—even if just a cameo—and seems genuinely supportive of the reboot’s potential.
Other actors from supporting roles have remained positive as well, though most have not formally expressed interest in returning. For many, it would likely depend on the format and role. Cameos or small mentor-style parts may be more realistic than reprises of the original characters.
Unlikely to Return
Daniel Radcliffe has made his position clear. While supportive of the reboot and interested to see how a new generation interprets the story, he has stated that he doesn’t plan to be involved. He noted that the focus should remain on the new cast and creative team and described the idea of making an appearance as “very weird.”
Emma Watson, meanwhile, has kept a lower profile in recent years and hasn’t commented publicly on the series. However, based on past interviews, her priorities have shifted toward activism and behind-the-scenes creative work. She has expressed caution about returning to franchises unless the conditions strongly align with her personal and professional values.
Several other key cast members, including those from the adult ensemble, have either passed away or moved into other areas of the industry. The reboot’s creative team appears committed to a full recasting, which makes any returning faces feel more symbolic than practical.
Still, the idea of legacy cameos isn’t entirely off the table. With the show expected to span multiple years and timelines, the possibility of subtle callbacks remains open—even if they’re more thematic than literal.
For now, the reboot is focused on casting fresh talent and building a new identity. While nostalgia will inevitably surround the production, the early signals suggest that the original trio is ready to pass the torch. And for those who grew up with the films, that’s probably the cleanest way forward.
