JK Rowling gives verdict on Harry Potter TV series after first trailer

JK Rowling has shared her verdict on the first trailer for the new Harry Potter series from HBO, which aims to be a more faithful adaptation of the books. 

The author, 60, who has become a controversial figure in recent years for speaking out against the transgender community, is not directly involved in the production of the new show. 

Describing the trailer as 'bloody marvellous' on X, a fan wrote: 'I cannot wait, and as it seems to me, neither can the rest of the world.'

In response, Rowling wrote on Thursday: 'It's going to be incredible. I'm so happy with it.' 

However, while the bestselling author was happy with the new trailer, many fans of the original series, which aired from 2001 to 2011, were left divided. 

Some criticisms included the lack of a classic cinematic colour gradient in the show, its casting choices, as well as the decision to simply repeat the storyline of the original films.

Reacting to the author's opinion on X, fans wrote: 'Can't honestly agree. I think it would have done a lot better focusing on a new show, perhaps focusing on Harry's younger son Albus. There's nothing to add through this remake.';

'Please don't let the colour grading be so dark during the dark scenes on release! It's so hard to watch shows where you can't see things in the dark!';

'I am a huge fan of the books and films, and so are my kids. This is going to take some getting used to. The new Hagrid sounds like a posh bloke doing an impersonation of Hugh Laurie doing a skit of a posh Hagrid.';

'Why are they remaking Harry Potter? What was wrong with the old one?';

'Why is it so dark and grim? I thought this was Harry Potter not Game of Thrones.' 

However, not everyone was so critical of the new series, which is set to premiere on Christmas Day.

Excited fans praised: 'No joke I've been wanting a TV show adaption almost my entire life because I was obsessed with all the missed details in the books. I can't believe it's real now.';

'If you’re excited about it, I’m excited about it.' 

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First official picture from Harry Potter TV series sees boy wizard prepare for epic Qudditch match

The newly released trailer teases the very beginning of Harry's story, from being mistreated by his family, the Dursleys, to meeting the friendly half-giant Hagrid, before arriving at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

It also hints at previously unseen moments, including scenes of Harry attending a Muggle school. 

At the start of the trailer, Harry's Aunt Petunia can be heard insisting there is 'nothing special' about him.

However, everything changes on his 11th birthday when he receives his Hogwarts acceptance letter - opening the door to a hidden world of friendship, adventure and magic.

But with this new life comes danger, as Harry is forced to confront a powerful enemy tied to his past.

Fans have been eagerly anticipating details about the series – and an official picture from the Harry Potter Instagram account gave fans a taste of what's to come.

The shot showed Harry from behind, with the protagonist wearing his Gryffindor Quidditch uniform, which has 'POTTER 7' on the back.

Harry's Nimbus 2000 broomstick can be partially seen, while he heads towards banners displaying Gryffindor and Hufflepuff colours.

Meanwhile, a banner reading 'Fred and George' – presumably referring to the Weasley twins – is also on display.