We did quite the double-take when we came to the realisation that it’s been 20 years since the release of the first Harry Potter film.
WATCH: Harry Potter 20th Anniversary | Return to Hogwarts
Yep, two whole decades have flown by since we packed our trunks and boarded the Hogwarts Express with Harry, Ron, and Hermione – three characters who played a role in the childhood of most young millennials.
While certain problematic comments from author JK Rowling in recent years have put the series under a bit of a microscope, nothing has been able to change the effect it had on so many kids around the world, sharing a message that in the end, goodness and love will always win over darkness.
With a message that still stands, films we still love to watch, and books we love to revisit, it’s no shock the series will be celebrating its 20th anniversary with a reunion special, done by the likes of Friends earlier this year.
What will be in the Harry Potter Anniversary Special?
The Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts special will see the majority of the film’s cast reunite, with Emma Watson, Rupert Grint and Daniel Radcliffe at the helm.
It will also include the likes of Helena Bonham Carter, Gary Oldman, Imelda Staunton, Tom Felton, James and Oliver Phelps, Mark Williams, Bonnie Wright, and Matthew Lewis, to name a few.
Chris Columbus, who directed the first two films, will also be joining in to discuss the franchise.
When does the Harry Potter Anniversary Special air in Australia?
We’ll be getting it here in Australia the same day as the UK – January 1, 2022.
Where can you watch the Harry Potter Anniversary Special in Australia?
The special will be airing on HBO Max in the US, meaning we’ll be able to see it on BINGE.
On top of the reunion special, BINGE will also deliver a four-part special event, Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses, from January 15.
The details remain scarce so far, but the special will be hosted by Academy Award-winning actress Helen Mirren.
Ready to check out BINGE? Sign up here for a two-week free trial.