The landscape of HBO’s Harry Potter reboot is shifting once again. Kit Harington known for his role in Game of Thrones has been cast as Gilderoy Lockhart in the upcoming second season, replacing Nicholas Hoult who had to step down due to scheduling conflicts.
This change comes amidst a wave of controversy surrounding the series, particularly due to the anti-transgender views of its creator, J.K. Rowling. The casting of Hoult, who has a significant LGBTQ+ following, sparked backlash from fans and industry professionals alike.
Kit Harington’s Casting and Previous Involvement
Harington is no stranger to the Harry Potter universe. He previously voiced the character of Gilderoy Lockhart in the Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions released last year. The audiobook also featured notable actors such as Hugh LaurieRiz Ahmed and Cush Jumbo.
Harington has expressed his admiration for the Harry Potter series, stating, “I read it, and like so many generations, I was entranced, and then I was a huge fan all through my teenage years.” His enthusiasm for the role is evident, and fans are eager to see his portrayal of the vain and boastful wizard.
The Backlash Against Nicholas Hoult’s Casting
The announcement of Nicholas Hoult as Gilderoy Lockhart on August 12 was met with swift criticism. Many fans and industry professionals questioned Hoult’s decision to join the project given Rowling’s controversial stance on transgender issues. Social media posts criticized Hoult for choosing to star in a series led by a figure known for her anti-transgender views.
One notable critic wrote, “Be so in demand you can literally pick any role yet decide to star in a dogshit reboot tv show led by a transphobic bigot.” This sentiment was echoed by many, including Bel Powley who is set to play Petunia Dursley in the series. Powley stated that she “strongly disagrees” with Rowling’s beliefs regarding trans people.
The backlash extended beyond social media. Ally Pankiw a queer director, publicly shared her refusal to consider directorial opportunities for the series, stating, “Absolutely f**king not! lol. (But thank you for asking)”. This was followed by Kate Herron another director, who also revealed she had turned down the opportunity to work on the series.
HBO’s Harry Potter Season 2: What to Expect
HBO’s Harry Potter series is set to return for a second season, following the adventures of Harry PotterRon Weasley and Hermione Granger as they navigate their second year at Hogwarts. The series is expected to adapt Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets the second book in Rowling’s beloved series.
The official summary of the book hints at the challenges Harry and his friends will face, including the arrival of the new Defense Against the Dark Arts professorGilderoy Lockhart and the mysterious attacks turning students to stone. Fans are eager to see how the series will bring this beloved story to life.
The main cast members, including Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, are set to return for the second season. Additional cast members such as John Lithgow as Professor Albus Dumbledore and Janet McTeer as Professor Minerva McGonagall will also reprise their roles.
Production for the second season is set to begin this fall, with a premiere date yet to be announced. Fans can look forward to seeing how the series will adapt the beloved story of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
