Daniel Radcliffe admits it feels ''surreal'' to see the new young cast of the upcoming HBO Harry Potter reboot, sharing both excitement and empathy for the child actors stepping into the iconic roles.
The 36 year old actor, who famously portrayed Harry Potter from age 11 to 21 in the original film series adapted from J.K. Rowling’s novels, expressed his amazement after seeing first photos of the reboot’s stars.
Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton, and Alastair Stout have been cast as Harry, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley, respectively, for the seven season series set to premiere in early 2027.
Speaking to People, Radcliffe emphasized the importance of protecting the child actors from comparisons, urging fans not to put undue pressure on them.
“We have all said, you just see pictures of these kids and you just want to grab them and hug them. That’s the impulse most of us feel,” he explained.
He noted that he, along with former co stars Emma Watson and Rupert Grint, have discussed how “surreal” it is to watch a new generation start the journey they once began decades ago.
Reflecting on his own rapid rise to fame, Radcliffe recalled being just 11 years old when he starred in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, describing the experience as overwhelming yet formative.
He credited his parents for guiding him through the intense spotlight with humor and support. Now a father himself, he welcomed a son with longtime partner Erin Darke in 2023.
Radcliffe said he is “so scared” thinking about the responsibilities involved if his child ever followed a similar path in showbiz.
Alongside his reflections on the reboot, Radcliffe continues to thrive in his post Potter career. He is preparing to return to Broadway for the solo play Every Brilliant Thing, opening March 12.