Harry Potter team stays together

By M&C Movie News Mar 24, 2007, 7:56 GMT

Russian gallery owner Galina Brieger poses with the wax figures of Harry Potter (C) and his friends Ron (L) and Hermine at the atrium of Hundertwasser\'s Green Citadel in Magdeburg, Germany, Thursday 07 December 2006. EPA/JENS WOLF

BURBANK, CA. (M&C) – Earlier this week, M&C reported that Emma Watson had not yet signed contracts to reprise her role in the last two Harry Potter movies.

Now, Jeff Robinov, president of production for Warner Bros. Pictures has announced Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson will reprise the roles they have made their own: teen wizards Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, respectively, in Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” and “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” the final two motion picture adaptations of J.K. Rowling’s best-selling book series.

In making the announcement, Robinov said, “When Daniel, Rupert and Emma were first cast as Harry, Ron and Hermione, we knew they were not only talented, but had a very special chemistry.  Through the years, and in each of the ‘Harry Potter’ films, we have watched them grow into extraordinary young adults, as well as remarkable actors.  It would be inconceivable to imagine anyone else in the roles with which they have become so identified, so we are thrilled and proud that Daniel, Rupert and Emma have chosen to complete the arc of their characters in the final two films.”

 Both “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” and “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” are being produced by David Heyman, who has produced all of the Harry Potter films to date and was instrumental in bringing the franchise to the screen, beginning with the first blockbuster, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.”  David Barron, who served as an executive producer on “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” and “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” and is a producer on the upcoming “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” will also be producing the final two installments of the franchise.

Producer David Heyman said, “One of the highlights of this journey has been to witness Dan, Rupert and Emma blossom from children into young adults. They have emerged as consummate professionals who are dedicated to honing their craft and striving for excellence. And yet, throughout, they have retained their enthusiasm and spirit, and they remain, to this day, the same wonderful, kind and generous individuals I met all those years ago.”

Daniel Radcliffe remarked, “Playing the role of Harry Potter has been an immense privilege, and I look forward to completing the series.  I feel a huge sense of loyalty to the character of Harry and the fans who have supported these films over the years.  During filming, I have learnt so much, made lots of friends and met people who have changed my life. I am indebted to J K Rowling, Warner Bros. and David Heyman for giving me this fantastic opportunity.”

Emma Watson stated, “I could never let Hermione go—she is my hero! I love her too much and love what playing her has meant to me. I am excited and honoured to be finishing what I started and playing her in all seven of the films.”

Rupert Grint offered, “Ron Weasley has become a big part of my life and not just because we’ve both got ginger hair! I’ve been so proud to play him and loved every second of being part of this world. I’m really looking forward to filming the last two films and being back with my ‘Weasley family’ and, of course, to seeing my good friends Emma and Dan. Thank you to everyone for being so supportive over the years; we couldn’t have done it without you.”

Warner Bros. Pictures’ fifth film in the series, “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” is slated for release in the U.S. on July 13, 2007.