JK Rowling has thrown her support behind a new development in the Harry Potter television series, penned for release on HBO Max.
The 58-year-old took to social media to share the news that Francesca Gardiner has been named as director and writer of the series.
Rowling reposted a Hollywood Reporter post that read: "The HBO #HarryPotter series has named Francesca Gardiner as its writer and showrunner and tapped Mark Mylod to direct multiple episodes. Both are Emmy winners for #Succession," Rowling announced she was "thrilled".
She penned alongside the post: "I'm truly thrilled to announce our director and writer, both of whom I interviewed as part of the production team.
"Both have a genuine passion for #HarryPotter, and having read Francesca's pilot script and heard Mark's vision, I'm certain the TV show will more than live up to expectations."
Fans responded to the author to share their approval over her involvement with the new series.
I'm truly thrilled to announce our director and writer, both of whom I interviewed as part of the production team. Both have a genuine passion for #HarryPotter, and having read Francesca's pilot script and heard Mark's vision, I'm certain the TV show will more than live up to… https://t.co/Cp146BXMny
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) June 26, 2024
One penned: "I honestly can't wait. Harry Potter is a Christmas tradition. I can't wait to have the TV show to watch on freezing cold December days with my chestnuts and hot chocolates with cream."
"Thank god Harry Potter won’t get the Star Wars treatment," another wrote, referring to the backlash new Disney series The Acolyte has garnered.
"It is with great anticipation that we await this show!" a third added.
"Was this planned, the specific date of announcement? June 26th? 27 years after book 1 was published?" one observant person asked.
The Harry Potter TV series has confirmed a new update
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"At least having you there, it won't be a woke disaster like Star Wars. Congrats, Jo," another shared.
Someone else remarked: "This was always my dream, to give enough time on screen to explore the nooks and corners of the epic books and let imagination run wild. Can’t wait is an understatement!"
Rowling's involvement in the series come as she continues to hold control over the franchise. She'll reunite with longtime confederates Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts as executive producers.
Lauding the decision to come on board, Rowling said in a statement at the time: "Max’s commitment to preserving the integrity of my books is important to me.
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The Harry Potter film franchise began in 2001 and is now being followed by a series
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"I’m looking forward to being part of this new adaptation which will allow for a degree of depth and detail only afforded by a long-form television series."
Her involvement in the show had been questioned due to her outspoken views on the trans debate and women's rights on social media.
The writer continues to face a backlash but has stated she "regrets" not airing her views sooner.
Despite her passionate views on gender identity, Rowling has strongly denied accusations of transphobia.
