Summary

Bertie Carvel has been cast as Cornelius Fudge, hinting at a significant change in the Harry Potter story.
HBO might be expanding the Ministry of Magic's storyline, deviating from the original books and movies.
Focusing on Harry Potter's political side may risk losing the magical and entertaining elements fans love.

HBO's Harry Potter had various new cast members confirmed this week, with nine new actors officially added to the highly anticipated television series. The likes of Katherine Parkinson, Johnny Flynn, and Daniel Rigby were all added to take on the roles of Molly Weasley, Lucius Malfoy, and Vernon Dursley, respectively.

Meanwhile, several child stars were added, such as Draco Malfoy, Seamus Finnigan, and Lavender Brown, who were all officially cast. However, one particular casting announcement caught the attention of Harry Potter fans as it seemed to hint that there is potentially going to be a significant change to the story for this adaptation.

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By Matthew Wilkinson

HBO's Harry Potter Series Has Already cast Bertie Carvel As Cornelius Fudge

Fudge Isn't Part Of The Harry Potter And The Philosopher's Stone Movie

Arguably, the most interesting casting decision came in the form of Bertie Carvel as Cornelius Fudge. While he might not be as prominent of a character as the likes of Lucius and Draco Malfoy, HBO's decision to cast him this soon into the process has raised eyebrows among Harry Potter fans, considering he never had a prominent role in any of the movies, appearing in just half of the film series. However, the most interesting part of this decision is the fact that the Minister of Magic doesn't actually make h is debut in the series until Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. While there's a slim chance this is just HBO casting ahead of time, the decision to announce him makes it seem very clear that he will play a role in the show's first season, which will be based on Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.

According to Deadline, Fudge will have a recurring role in the show, which means a significant change from the original story. Adding him to the show this early hints at the fact that he will have a key role in the first season, which guarantees a serious diversion from the original story. It's an interesting decision since HBO originally claimed that the series would be a faithful adaptation of JK Rowling's books, but this hints at a major change, and it's only in the first season.

HBO Might Be Enhancing The Ministry Of Magic's Storyline

This Would Be A Serious Diversion From The Books And Movies

cornelius-fudge-media-harry-potter — Cornelius Fudge talking to the Daily Prophet, Harry Potter

Fudge has a vital role in the Harry Potter series in the grand scheme of things, which the movies never truly tapped into to the full potential. Fans have been expecting HBO to expand the wizarding world due to the extra time they will have per season compared to the movies, but most people presumed all of that would be focused on Hogwarts and showing different aspects of that. While HBO might do that with this version of Harry Potter, the decision to cast Fudge this early hints that the Ministry of Magic will be showcased in greater detail, which would expand the world in a different way. Showcasing more of the adult-oriented aspect of Harry Potter that isn't based on the Golden Trio, and that's something that is captivating and dramatic if done right.

Due to the nature of Fudge's work, it would add a more serious tone to the show, a major shift from the movies and books. Rowling made the Harry Potter stories accessible to children, and the film series did a great job of maintaining that tone, especially in the early movies before the stakes are ramped up. Therefore, switching away from that would be a risk, as people will be heading into HBO's Harry Potter version expecting something similar.

HBO Would Be Taking A Risk Showcasing More Of Harry Potter's Political Side

It Has The Potential To Not Be As Entertaining Or Magical As The Harry Potter Movies

Focusing on the Ministry of Magic in more detail throughout the Harry Potter series feels like something that would lend itself nicely to the medium of television due to the drama involved. However, focusing on more political storylines within Harry Potter isn't something that many people are crying out for, which is why there's a possibility this will backfire. Most fans would prefer to see the magical elements of Harry Potter in more detail, whether it's various lessons at Hogwarts, more Quidditch footage, or some extra magical creatures. The character of Fudge isn't one that fans were actively seeking more from heading into this television series, so there is a concern among some people that HBO is going to be focusing on expanding the wrong elements of Harry Potter to try and be different from the movies. The casting itself is strong, as Carvel is a talented actor who will undoubtedly do a great job of bringing the Minister of Magic to life. However, there is a serious risk involved in this Harry Potter decision, and it might end up being looked back on with reflection as a mistake when all is said and done.

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