Rupert Grint, forever linked to the wizarding world as Ron Weasley, recently extended a warm gesture to the actor taking on the iconic role in the new HBO series. As he switched on the Christmas lights in North London, Grint reflected on a decade spent embodying the red-haired friend to Harry Potter, a part that launched him, Daniel Radcliffe, and Emma Watson into global stardom.
The original trio captivated audiences as Hogwarts’ most memorable students, but a new generation is now stepping into their shoes. Alastair Stout has been cast as Ron, alongside Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter. Grint, echoing Daniel Radcliffe’s supportive move, penned a letter to Stout, offering encouragement as he embarks on this extraordinary journey.
“I wrote him a letter, before they started, passing the baton as it were,” Grint shared. His message was simple: best wishes and a hope that Stout experiences the same joy he found within the magical world. Grint believes the new series will forge its own identity, a fresh take on a beloved story.
Despite the enduring association with Ron Weasley, Grint embraces the legacy. He acknowledges the character’s profound impact on a generation, and even on those discovering the books and films today. “It gives me a lot of pride,” he said, admitting he doesn’t anticipate ever fully escaping Ron’s shadow – and he’s perfectly content with that.
The upcoming HBO series boasts a stellar cast, including John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore and Warwick Davies reprising his role as Professor Flitwick. Paapa Essiedu will portray Severus Snape, Janet McTeer will embody Minerva McGonagall, and familiar faces like Nick Frost as Hagrid and Johnny Flynn as Lucius Malfoy will also appear. Production is well underway, with a projected release in 2027.
While Tom Felton, known for playing Draco Malfoy, has revisited his role on Broadway, Grint remains open to possibilities but is currently focused on exploring new creative avenues. He cherishes the experience of stepping outside the wizarding world, having taken on diverse roles in television and film since his Potter days.
Grint, along with Radcliffe and Watson, previously voiced support for the trans community in 2020, distancing themselves from the author’s publicly expressed views. He reaffirmed his commitment to inclusivity, stating simply, “Trans women are women. Trans men are men. We should all be entitled to live with love and without judgment.”
Recently, Keira Knightley also addressed the controversy surrounding the Audible adaptation of Harry Potter, expressing regret for her lack of awareness regarding the boycott initiated by fans in solidarity with the trans community. She emphasized the need for respect and understanding amidst differing opinions.
