Warner Bros. Discovery rebrands key shows as HBO Originals

Warner Bros. Discovery is making changes to its original programming lineup, with a recent announcement by May Bloys, CEO of HBO and Max Content, revealing that certain highly anticipated shows will now be categorized as HBO Original series. This includes the upcoming Harry Potter TV show, the It prequel series Welcome to Derry, and the Green Lantern TV series titled Lanterns.

The decision to rebrand these series under the HBO Originals umbrella was based on the similarities in the development process between HBO and Max content. While these shows were initially intended for the Max platform, the production methods and talent involved aligned more closely with how HBO shows are typically approached.

Harry Potter TV Series and Welcome to Derry

The Harry Potter TV series, slated for a 2026 premiere, has been in development since 2021. While specific details about the show's storyline remain undisclosed, reports suggest that it will stay faithful to J.K. Rowling's original novels. Actor Daniel Radcliffe, known for his portrayal of the lead character in the film series, has indicated that a cameo appearance in the TV show is unlikely.

Welcome to Derry, a prequel to the It films, will feature actor Bill Skarsgård reprising his role as Pennywise the Clown. The series is set to debut next year and promises to delve deeper into the eerie world of Derry.

Transition to HBO Originals

While these shows make the transition to HBO Originals, other upcoming Max original series like The Penguin and Dune: Prophecy will continue under the Max banner. The Penguin, a spinoff of The Batman, would have been an HBO Original if not for existing international licensing agreements.

Conclusion

Warner Bros. Discovery's strategic shift towards emphasizing original programming reflects a commitment to delivering high-quality content to viewers. By rebranding key series under the HBO Originals umbrella, the company aims to streamline its content offerings and provide audiences with compelling storytelling across its platforms.