Ginny Weasley actor's family issue statement as they pull her from new Harry Potter show
While fans are eagerly awaiting its release, the new Harry Potter series is wrapping production on season one.
But as it was originally understood that the cast would remain the same throughout the HBO show (pretty much like it did in the films), it’s now been confirmed that one of the characters is already going to be recast.
Gracie Cochrane, who plays Ginny Weasley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, will not return for the second season and beyond.
Her family issued a statement today (18 May), as they confirmed the ‘challenging decision’ had been made for her to leave the role.
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The TV adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s massively popular Wizarding World was officially renewed for its second season earlier this month and it’s expected that production will begin later this year.
In a statement shared by Deadline, the young actor’s family said: “Due to unforeseen circumstances Gracie has made the challenging decision to step away from her role as Ginny Weasley in the HBO Harry Potter series after season one.”
Gracie’s family said that her time as part of the world of Harry Potter playing the Weasley daughter has been ‘truly wonderful’.
“And she is deeply grateful to Lucy Bevan and the entire production team for creating such an unforgettable experience,” they continued.
“Gracie is very excited about the opportunities her future holds.”
In response to her exit, HBO added in a statement: “We support Gracie Cochrane and her family’s decision not to return for the next season of HBO’s Harry Potter series, and we are grateful for her work on season one of the show.
“We wish Gracie and her family the best.”
While Ginny is a minor presence in the first book, she has a key role in the second, The Chamber of Secrets.
In this, she of course is tricked into opening a secret room in Hogwarts castle, releasing a murderous giant serpent.
It’s not yet announced who will play Ginny as the character is set to be recast.
Other children cast in the Harry Potter HBO show include Dominic McLaughlin as the boy wizard himself, Arabella Stanton as Hermione and Alastair Stout as Ron.
And other actors confirmed for the series include the likes of Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall and Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape.
The first season of HBO’s Harry Potter adaptation will be released this Christmas.
Topics: Harry Potter, HBO, TV and Film
Jess Battison