The wizarding world is buzzing with excitement and speculation as HBO’s highly anticipated Harry Potter TV series inches closer to production. Among the whirlwind of rumors swirling online, one has caught the attention of fans globally: British actress Francesca Amewudah-Rivers is reportedly being considered for the iconic role of Hermione Granger. But is there truth to this casting rumor, or is it just wishful thinking from an eager fanbase? Let’s dive into the details and explore why this speculation has sparked both excitement and debate.
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The rumor first gained traction in April 2025, when social media platforms, particularly X, began circulating claims that Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, a 26-year-old actress known for her standout performance as Juliet in the 2024 West End production of Romeo and Juliet alongside Tom Holland, was in the running to play Hermione Granger. Fans of J.K. Rowling’s beloved series were quick to react, with some expressing enthusiasm for a fresh take on the character, while others remained loyal to Emma Watson’s unforgettable portrayal in the original film franchise.
However, the rumor has faced skepticism. HBO’s casting call for the Harry Potter series, announced in September 2024, explicitly sought young actors aged 9 to 11 from the UK and Ireland to portray Harry, Ron, and Hermione, aligning with the characters’ ages in the books. At 26, Amewudah-Rivers is significantly older than the target demographic, making her an unlikely candidate for the role of a young Hogwarts student. Despite this, the rumor persists, fueled by fans’ curiosity about how the series will reimagine the Golden Trio.
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Amewudah-Rivers has quickly risen to prominence in the theater world, earning praise for her emotive and nuanced performances. Her Oxford education and commanding stage presence have drawn comparisons to Hermione’s intelligence and determination. Additionally, the series’ commitment to “inclusive, diverse casting,” as stated in HBO’s casting call, has led some to speculate that Amewudah-Rivers, who is of African descent, could bring a new perspective to the role. This aligns with J.K. Rowling’s 2016 statement to The Observer, where she expressed enthusiasm for a Black Hermione, noting that the character’s skin color was never specified in the books.
The idea of a diverse Hermione isn’t new. In the stage play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, actress Noma Dumezweni portrayed an adult Hermione, receiving widespread acclaim. This precedent has emboldened fans to embrace the possibility of a non-white actress taking on the role, though it has also sparked backlash from a vocal minority who cling to Watson’s portrayal as the definitive Hermione.
The rumor has divided the Harry Potter fandom, much like a Sorting Hat ceremony gone awry. On one hand, supporters of Amewudah-Rivers argue that her talent and charisma could breathe new life into Hermione, offering a book-accurate portrayal of the bushy-haired, logic-driven witch. Social media posts have praised her potential to capture Hermione’s brilliance while adding a modern, inclusive twist. “A Black Hermione would be amazing! Francesca has the gravitas to pull it off,” one fan wrote on X.
On the other hand, some fans remain hesitant, not due to Amewudah-Rivers’ talent but because of their attachment to the original films. Emma Watson’s portrayal, which spanned eight movies from 2001 to 2011, is considered iconic, with many struggling to imagine anyone else in the role. “No one can replace Emma,” one commenter posted, echoing a sentiment shared across fan forums. The age discrepancy has also fueled skepticism, with many pointing out that HBO’s focus on young actors makes the rumor seem far-fetched.HBO’s Harry Potter series, set to premiere in 2027, promises a faithful adaptation of Rowling’s seven books, with each season covering one novel. Showrunner Francesca Gardiner (Succession) and director Mark Mylod (Game of Thrones) are leading the project, which has already confirmed several adult cast members, including Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape and John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore. The search for the Golden Trio, however, remains ongoing, with over 32,000 young actors auditioning through an open casting call. Filming is slated to begin in summer 2025 at Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden, UK.
While the idea of Francesca Amewudah-Rivers as Hermione Granger is exciting, the evidence suggests it’s more fantasy than reality. Her age and HBO’s casting criteria point to a younger actress taking on the role. Still, the rumor highlights the fandom’s passion for the series and their desire for a diverse, dynamic cast. As we await official casting announcements, one thing is certain: whoever steps into Hermione’s shoes will have big robes to fill.
