Harry Potter TV show’s popular child actors won’t attend an upcoming Christmas-themed event amid fears of protest. HBO‘s anticipated series is based on J.K. Rowling‘s bestselling book series.
Dominic McLaughlin, Alastair Stout, and Arabella Stanton won’t be part of Oxford Street’s Christmas lights switch-on event in central London on November 9, 2026, reports The Independent. The leading child stars play Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger, respectively, in the TV series.
An HBO spokesperson revealed that they have decided “not to involve our young actors in the official switch-on event for the Oxford Street Christmas lights.” The decision comes following speculation of a protest during the event in light of J.K. Rowling’s controversial opinions on trans rights.
The festive takeover comes as HBO prepares to bring Harry Potter back to screens
The upcoming event is part of HBO’s partnership with the New West End Company ahead of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’s Christmas debut. In a previous announcement, it was confirmed that the collaboration would “bring the magic of Harry Potter to Oxford Street this Christmas.”
The joint statement also mentioned that the event will unleash “Harry Potter-inspired celebrations and attractions to shoppers, commuters, international visitors and fans throughout the festive season.”
Season 1 of the Harry Potter TV show will launch on December 25, 2026. Its massive cast also features John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid.
HBO has already renewed the show for a second season. It will introduce more cast members, including former Game of Thrones star Kit Harington. Season 2 will also expand Katherine Parkinson’s role, who will briefly appear in Season 1 as Mrs. Weasley. Additionally, Bonnie Hill will play Ginny Weasley in the next chapter. She will replace Gracie Cochrane, who left the show “due to unforeseen circumstances.”
HBO’s TV series is expected to run for seven seasons, based on all of J.K. Rowling’s books.
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