Harry Potter Reboot: Daniel Radcliffe Says New Star Will Be ‘Better Than Me’

Daniel Radcliffe has a bold prediction about HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series — and it’s a humble one.

The actor, who famously played the Boy Who Lived in the original film franchise, says the new young star stepping into the role will likely outshine him.

Speaking during a YouTube interview with ScreenRant, Radcliffe shared his thoughts on the HBO reboot, which will adapt J. K. Rowling’s seven novels across eight seasons. The series is expected to premiere in 2027.

“I’m sure Dominic is going to be better than me,” Radcliffe said, referring to newcomer Dominic McLaughlin, who has been cast as Harry Potter.

Radcliffe reflected honestly on his early days in the role that made him a global star.

“I learned as I went,” he said. “I look back on what I did now with a lot more kindness, and I find it less embarrassing now that I’m older. But I was very much learning how to do it for a long time on Potter.”

A Message to Fans

While Radcliffe is supportive of the new cast, he also made a heartfelt request to fans and the media: let the new generation shine on their own.

Since casting news broke, many fans online have called for people to “look after” the young actors taking on these iconic roles. Radcliffe agrees — but says that means not constantly comparing them to the original stars.

“If you mean that, if everyone really means what they are saying, then one of the things you can do for me is not ask about me and Rupert [Grint] about it all the time,” he said.

Radcliffe, who starred alongside Rupert Grint in the original films, said he doesn’t want to feel like a “weird spectral phantom” hanging over the new cast.

“I would like not to be weird spectral phantoms in these children’s lives,” he added. “Just let them get on it. Because it’s going to be a new thing.”

A New Chapter for the Wizarding World

HBO’s upcoming adaptation promises a more detailed, season-by-season retelling of the beloved books. With more screen time, fans can expect deeper character development and storylines that didn’t make it into the movies.

Meanwhile, Radcliffe is focused on new projects. He is currently promoting his NBC sports comedy, The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins, where he plays a disgraced filmmaker trying to rebuild his career by making a documentary.

As for the new Harry Potter series, Radcliffe’s message is clear: give the new cast space to create their own magic.

And if his prediction comes true, fans may soon see a whole new version of Harry Potter — one even the original star believes will be better than his own.