The character's reveal on 16/7 garnered hundreds of thousands of views and over 400,000 likes across social media platforms. On HBO's Instagram, one user commented, "I love Nick Frost, he's a great choice. But the wig and beard look awkward. The makeup artists need to refine it a bit. It looks a little like cosplay,". Another user expressed enthusiasm, "Welcome to Diagon Alley. I think Hagrid looks fantastic,".

Another comment, which received nearly 4,000 likes, read, "I don't understand why, but every photo they post of the cast looks AI-generated. Is it just me, or does anyone else feel the same way?".

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid. Photo: HBO

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid. Photo: HBO

In the 2001-2011 film series, the beloved character was played by Scottish actor Robbie Coltrane. The role propelled Coltrane to international recognition. Hagrid is one of the first characters introduced, guiding the orphaned Harry Potter into the wizarding world. He remains a fan favorite. Coltrane's passing in 2022 at age 72 due to multiple organ failure was met with widespread sadness.

53-year-old Nick Frost, a British actor and writer, is known for his comedic roles in Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World’s End. He frequently collaborates with his close friend Simon Pegg, forming a dynamic on-screen duo. Frost's natural acting style brings humor and sincerity to his characters. Beyond film, he also works in television, writing, and voice acting for animated films.

Robbie Coltrane (at second 10) in the trailer for "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" (2002). Video: Warner Bros.

HBO is producing the new series, slated to air in 2027. Each season will adapt one of J. K. Rowling's books, following Harry Potter from his first year at Hogwarts, his friendships with Ron and Hermione, to his confrontation with Lord Voldemort. 11-year-old Dominic McLaughlin will play the boy wizard, alongside Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley.

The project boasts an experienced team, including producer and writer Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod, known for the Emmy-winning series Succession. The casting of Paapa Essiedu, a Black actor, as Snape, a character previously associated with Alan Rickman, sparked earlier controversy among fans.

Upon its initial announcement, some fans called for a boycott due to J. K. Rowling's controversial statements about transgender people. In June, Rowling expressed her approval of the first two episodes' scripts. She clarified that she isn't directly writing the series but actively supports the writing team.

Robbie Coltrane (1950-2022) in the "Harry Potter" films. Photo: Warner Bros.

Robbie Coltrane (1950-2022) in the "Harry Potter" films. Photo: Warner Bros.

According to the BBC, Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden (UK), the filming location, has received permission to construct a temporary school for the child actors. Accommodating 150 to 600 students, the school will operate from 5:30 am to 8:30 pm on weekdays, enabling them to continue their education while filming. This facility is permitted to operate for a maximum of 10 years, aligning with the series' projected production timeline.

The Harry Potter series chronicles the adventures of the eponymous young wizard and his two friends at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The first installment, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, was published on 26/6/1997. The seven-book series has sold 500 million copies, becoming the best-selling book series in history, translated into 73 languages. The final book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, published on 21/7/2007, sold 15 million copies worldwide within 24 hours. The books have been adapted into eight films, grossing $7.7 billion globally and receiving 12 Oscar nominations.

Que Chi (Independent)