I was 12 years old when I watched “Harry Potter” for the first time. After watching, I thought to myself, “It’s not too late for my letter.¨ The summer then went by and I thought, “Maybe it was lost in the mail?” Six years later, it wasn’t a surprise when there was no letter waiting for me, just the realization that I didn’t get accepted into the Hogwarts School Of Witchcraft and Wizardry and I was a muggle. Although I didn’t get to live my Hogwarts dream, that doesn’t mean it’s too late for all. HBO Original is having a Harry Potter open casting call for the ages 9-11! Most Harry Potter fans are unenthusiastic about this, including me. It’s going to be hard finding replacements for the one and only, Daniel Radcliff, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Tom Felton, Evanna Lynch and Matthew Lewis. These actors truly embody their characters from their personalities on and off screen, as well as looks. Lucky for HBO, I’m a Harry Potter enthusiast and have some character fan castings for these roles. Who would know better than a hardcore Harry Potter fan?
- Harry Potter: Callen Barry
The first person I would cast is Callen Barry as Harry Potter. For Harry I need an actor who has experience playing a taxing role. Callen has appeared in both “The Equalizer” and “Elijah and George: A Revolutionary Tale,” so he knows his way around the acting industry. He gave an amazing performance as the ¨Tesla Kid¨. This kid is talented, that’s why he should be your Harry Potter.
- Harmonie Granger: Karis Musongole
I would cast 10-year-old Karis Musongole, who conveniently has experience acting as a different bright young witch. She played young Elphaba Thropp in the 2024 adaptation of “Wicked.” I know it has to be someone who could play a character who is quick witted and helpful, while also being a tad bossy and extremely clever. Karis could play this character well, as she plays Elphaba, a character that is like Hermonie in the sense they are both strong willed and their intellect is prodigious compared to their classmates. Don’t get them fooled, both characters are strong female leads who care about their loved ones, so don’t mess with them or you might regret it!
- Ron Weasly: Divine Love Konadu-Sun
Divine Love is an exceptional young actor who played Prince T’Challa ll, son of King T´Challa in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” Though the two roles aren’t completely alike, they’re not so different either. Divine Love plays a young prince who has a keen sense of humor which is the most important trait of Ron. He is qualified to play Ron Weasly for the fact that he would be able to use his past experience in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”
- Neville Longbottom: Sam Firth
10- year-old Sam Firth who was in “Heart Stopper” as young Charlie Spring. Sam would play the part of Neville Longbottom well due to his former work when he played young Charlie. Both actors play shy kids who are a bit clumsy, but prove their bravery to their peers when put through trial and tribulation. Sam Firth can also be compared to young Matthew Lewis who plays Neville through the franchise, not only by similar characteristics within the parts they portrayed, but also share several similar physical attributes. Sam has a round face and larger ears which fit Neville’s character description. He would play Neville Longbottom well considering previous performance in “Heart Stopper.”
- Draco Malfoy: Diesel La Torraca
Draco Malfoy was tricky to cast because I needed an actor who could nail the performance. Draco poses as a bully but really is a bitter coward, a role with much depth. He would need to relay the depth of Draco to the audience. Diesel would be eligible for this part due to him playing Austin in “Ginny and Georgia.”Austin, like Draco, is misunderstood in his actions that are caused by stressors, such as their family lives. He also somewhat resembles Draco with his sleek blonde hair and pointed face. Diesel should be considered for the role because of his past familiarity with the type of role and a few slight resemblances.
- Luna Lovegood: Maia Kealoha
Maia Kealoha is a 8 year old girl from Hawaii, so why would she fit the part of Luna Lovegood? Maia is already getting big roles being in the Live Action “Lilo and Stitch” that’s set to come out on May 23, 2025. Luna is a girl who cares for her friends like they’re family like Lilo. Lilo and Luna alike are both free spirits who can’t be tamed.
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These six rising young child stars actors and actresses are qualified to be a part of the new HBO Original “Harry Potter” series. Despite their age and experience they’ve already proven how talented they are by showing their skills are truly beyond their years. I hope they all receive their letter
