JK Rowling associated with new 'Harry Potter' series? Makers clarify
What's the story
Putting an end to numerous speculations, HBO Max, on Wednesday, announced that it will be going ahead with the Harry Potter series, where each season will be dedicated to one book.
This led fans to wonder whether Harry Potter creator and controversial author JK Rowling will be onboard, too.
Responding to this, the makers have revealed that she'll indeed be an executive producer.
Context
Why does this story matter?
The Harry Potter series, authored by Rowling and translated into multiple languages, has defined an entire generation and boasts fans from across the world.
It subsequently inspired the Harry Potter film franchise, which is one of the most commercially successful film franchises and catapulted the careers of Rupert Grint, Daniel Radcliffe, and Emma Watson.
The upcoming series, thus, has a towering legacy to match.
Rowling's involvement
Like the movies, Rowling will be offering advice here, too
HBO and Max Content's Chairman and CEO Casey Bloys told the media, "[Rowling] will be involved. She's an executive producer on the show. Her insights are going to be helpful on that."
Addressing the makers' "priority," Bloys further added, "The HP story is incredibly affirmative and positive and about love and self-acceptance. That's our priority — what's on screen."
Makers' statement
Makers believe Rowling's controversial comments are an 'online conversation'
Bloys was further asked whether Rowling's "transphobic comments" would impede in searching for a new cast ensemble.
Responding to this, he said, "I don't have a comment on that today."
"No, I don't think this is the forum [to discuss that], that's s a very online conversation, obviously very nuanced and complicated, and not something we're going to get into."
New series
Everything we know about the upcoming series
The series has been described as "a faithful adaptation of the iconic books."
Notably, the eight movies, based on the seven books, had to leave out several chunks of information, sub-plots, and side characters to squeeze everything into the films' runtime.
The series will also feature a new cast ensemble and it's unclear whether any original cast member will appear for a special appearance.