“Back to Hogwarts Day” surprise: Original film actor returning for the series

Currently in production under the working title Harry Potter, the new series will retell the story of Harry, Ron and Hermione with a fresh cast and a deeper focus than the original films. Many fans had hoped Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy, might return as his on-screen father Lucius. While that wish won’t come true, Warner Bros. has confirmed that another familiar face will appear – timed perfectly with the annual "Back to Hogwarts Day" on September 1.

Warwick Davis is set to reprise his role as Professor Filius Flitwick in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series. Best known as the spirited Charms professor who introduces young witches and wizards to their first spell with an enthusiastic “Wingardium Leviosa!”, Davis expressed his excitement about returning to the role in a cheerful Instagram post:

"Hogwarts has always held a very special place in my heart. (...) Thank you to all the fans who have kept the magic alive – I can’t wait to see you back in the classroom."

The announcement was made in an official HBO press release. Alongside Warwick Davis, several other actors have been confirmed for key roles at Hogwarts. Sirine Saba will play Professor Sprout, Bríd Brennan takes on Madam Pomfrey and Richard Durden will appear as the ghostly Professor Binns. Leigh Gill steps into the role of the goblin Griphook, a character previously portrayed by Davis in the films. Among the students, the new cast includes Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy, Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom and Elijah Oshin as Dean Thomas.