'More satisfying than movies': Gary Oldman's prediction for 'HP' series
What's the story
Gary Oldman, who played Sirius Black in the Harry Potter films, has shared his thoughts on the upcoming HBO adaptation of the popular book series. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, he said that one major difference between the TV show and movies will make it "more satisfying" for fans. He said, "I believe [the TV series is] gonna do it pretty much word-for-word, which I think, as a viewer, would be more satisfying."
Character focus
Oldman reveals 'character detail was sacrificed' in the movies
Oldman, who first played Sirius Black in 2004's Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, said that "a lot of character detail was sacrificed" in the films to meet the "two-and-a-half-hour window."
The actor also expressed his gratitude for being part of "such a phenomenon, the like of which I don't think you're ever gonna see again."
Cast appreciation
The actor also praised director Chris Columbus
Oldman also took a moment to appreciate the original crew of the Harry Potter films.
He specifically mentioned Chris Columbus, who directed the first two movies in the series.
"When you think of that initial cast, someone in the story who doesn't get a lot of credit anymore is Chris Columbus, who set the world up and cast it."
"We were extraordinarily lucky to have those people come back again, and again, and again, and literally grow into those roles."
Series details
About the upcoming 'Harry Potter' series
The Harry Potter series will premiere on HBO on Christmas 2026.
The show will be a retelling of JK Rowling's seven-book saga, with each season dedicated to one book.
The cast includes Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, and Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, among others.