The wizarding world may soon get the backstory fans have been dreaming of. Reports suggest HBO Max is developing a new series centered on the founding of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, one of the most iconic settings in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter universe. According to recent chatter on X, the streaming platform is eyeing an A-list cast, with Henry Cavill being considered for Godric Gryffindor and Tom Hiddleston for Salazar Slytherin. If greenlit, the show would explore how the legendary castle came to be and how its four houses—Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin—were created, giving audiences a fresh perspective on the magical school that has captivated millions for decades.
The idea of diving into the Hogwarts founders’ story isn’t entirely new. Fans have long speculated about what it would be like to see Godric Gryffindor, Helga Hufflepuff, Rowena Ravenclaw, and Salazar Slytherin brought to life in a series. These four figures are pillars of the Harry Potter world, each with values and legacies that shaped not only Hogwarts but wizarding culture as a whole. If this rumored project moves forward, it would likely be set in the 10th century, a time when magic was hidden in secrecy as witches and wizards faced intense persecution. That backdrop could allow the show to weave together themes of political tension, magical innovation, and personal rivalries among the founders, creating a story as dramatic as it is enchanting.
Casting buzz adds even more intrigue. Henry Cavill, best known for his roles in The Witcher and as Superman, feels like a natural choice for Godric Gryffindor. Known for his bravery, dueling skills, and unwavering belief in equality, Gryffindor famously clashed with Salazar Slytherin over whether Muggle-born students should be admitted to Hogwarts. Cavill’s ability to embody strong yet empathetic characters could add depth to Gryffindor’s ideals, particularly in exploring his ideological battles with Slytherin. The goblin-forged sword of Gryffindor, an artifact central to Harry Potter lore, could also play a big role in the narrative, especially if the series dives into its controversial creation by Ragnuk the First.
On the other side of the story is Tom Hiddleston, reportedly being considered for Salazar Slytherin. Hiddleston has earned acclaim for his layered performance as Loki in the Marvel films, and that talent could bring new complexity to Slytherin, a character often painted as purely villainous. Slytherin’s obsession with blood purity, his dramatic split from the other founders, and the creation of the Chamber of Secrets with its deadly basilisk could all be explored in a richer light. Was he simply prejudiced, or could his actions be reframed as a reaction to the dangers wizards faced in a volatile era? With Hiddleston’s knack for portraying morally conflicted characters, the series could present Slytherin as more than just a dark name in history.
The broader narrative potential is massive. Seeing the founders working together to establish Hogwarts as a safe haven for magical youth would highlight how each one’s values—bravery for Gryffindor, loyalty for Hufflepuff, wisdom for Ravenclaw, and ambition for Slytherin—became the DNA of the school’s houses. The castle’s construction, magically hidden from Muggles, would offer a stunning chance for HBO Max to showcase enchanted medieval architecture, protective charms, and legendary spells. Fans might also get to see underexplored storylines, like Helga Hufflepuff’s role in magical cooking or Rowena Ravenclaw’s tragic bond with her daughter Helena.
While HBO Max hasn’t officially confirmed the series, excitement continues to build. Warner Bros. Discovery has been exploring Harry Potter-related projects for some time, though no specific details have been confirmed until now. The possibility of a series with Cavill and Hiddleston, combined with a historically rich setting, has fans buzzing about what could be the next big chapter in the wizarding world. If these rumors prove true, Hogwarts’ origins may finally come to life on screen, offering magic, mystery, and a brand-new way to connect with a beloved universe.
