Wizarding World · Coming to HBO and HBO Max 25 December 2026

What to watch before Harry Potter (HBO)

HBO's Harry Potter series is a new adaptation of the books with a new cast. It starts the story from the beginning, so you don't need to watch anything first.

--days
--hours
--minutes
--seconds
Nonerequired
2titles for context
5hif you want them

The essentials

Nothing. The series starts from the beginning with Philosopher's Stone.

Want some context?

Optional, but they add to the story. About 5 hours in all.

  1. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone

    Film · 2001 · 2h 32m

    The same story the first season tells, as the 2001 film told it.

  2. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

    Film · 2002 · 2h 41m

    Carry on with the films while you wait for Season 2.

Questions

What do I need to watch before Harry Potter (HBO)?

Nothing. The series starts from the beginning with Philosopher's Stone. For context, you could watch Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

When does Harry Potter (HBO) come out?

Harry Potter (HBO) is coming to HBO and HBO Max on 25 December 2026 in the US.

Is the HBO Harry Potter series a remake of the films?

It's a new adaptation of the books, rather than a remake of the films, with a new cast.

The full story

Also coming soon

Be ready for Harry Potter (HBO)

Chronologica turns this list into a schedule that finishes before release day, and tells you how many hours a week that takes.

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