Last April, Warner Bros. Discovery announced plans to bring Harry Potter to television. As far as we're aware, Max is looking to retell J.K. Rowling's beloved series of novels in an episodic format, likely with one season dedicated to each book.
Complications may arise in later seasons given the increased page count of later instalments (perhaps that will just mean more episodes), but with the 25th anniversary of The Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone nearing, now feels like an appropriate time to reboot the franchise.
Last month, we learned that Max had been accepting pitches from different writers who were looking to take charge of this Wizarding World and Deadline is today reporting that the shortlist is down to only three names.
According to the trade, Succession scribe Francesca Gardiner is among the finalists and one of the three writers being considered to retell Harry Potter's story on the small screen. Martha Hillier, Kathleen Jordan, Tom Moran and Michael Lesslie were all previously named as being in the running but it's unclear which, if any, of them is vying for the job alongside Gardiner.
A decision is expected to be made by Max and Warner Bros. Television soon. More than one writer may ultimately be hired and the streamer is open to spin-off pitches as well. Author J.K. Rowling is expected to be involved in the pitching process and will likely help choose whoever takes charge of this Harry Potter TV series.
As well as working on Succession seasons 4 and 4, Gardiner has worked on shows like His Dark Materials, Killing Eve, and The Man In The High Castle.
When the news broke that this TV series was in the works, HBO & Max Content Chairman and CEO Casey Bloys confirmed the show's budget would be in line with Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon (the latter's first season cost $125 million, so this is going to be a $1+ billion commitment over 10 years).
Daniel Radcliffe has said on numerous occasions that he won't be making a cameo appearance and now filmmaker David Yates - who helmed four Harry Potter movies and the Fantastic Beasts trilogy - has made it clear Max will reboot the Boy Wizard without his input.
"Do you know what? Honestly, I could not, in any conceivable way, get involved," he revealed last year. "It's simple: I spent a long time at that school, in those corridors and in those classrooms, and it was an exquisite experience and one I will always treasure. But to go back and do another year or two, for me, I feel I've left it."
"I wish that show so well, it's gonna be amazing to see them re-explore all it can be for the next generation," Yates continued. "I think it'll be a challenge for everyone involved, but it's a very exciting enterprise and I wish it well.
Stay tuned for more on Max's Harry Potter plans as we have it!