It sounds like broomsticks, spellbooks, and other props are a hot commodity on the set of HBO's upcoming Harry Potter series, and the studio has had to microchip props in order to keep track of them.
Following a string of suspected thefts on the set of Harry Potter season 1, HBO has had to warn cast members of the disappearing items and microchip items such as pumpkins and wands.
The Sun has released a shot of a poster from the site, which looks pretty whimsical but warns those on set that "For inventory and security purposes, props are being tracked daily and movement of props will be logged." The text continues, "If you need to take any prop off-set or away from its designated area, please seek approval from the Props Department first."
Props from the Harry Potter film series have gone for hefty sums online. In 2024, The Marauder's Map from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban was sold at auction for just under $300,000, making it the most expensive Harry Potter prop as per Barnebys.
A source told the UK newspaper, "It’s easy to suspect the dozens of support actors on set, but truthfully no one knows who is responsible," adding, "Production bosses said they will be scouring eBay to make sure nothing is found for sale online." No props have been found up for sale just yet, but "anyone caught doing so will be punished and fired."
Based on the first Harry Potter book, the first season of the HBO show, officially titled Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, will follow Dominic McLaughlin as Potter as he is accepted to Hogwarts and begins his education as a wizard. Arabella Stanton and Alistair Stout are joining him as his best friends, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley. Whilst season 1 is currently filming, Harry Potter season 2 is already in the works, and is ready to start shooting this Fall.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone will premiere on December 25 on HBO and HBO Max. In the meantime, get up to speed with our guide to the other new TV shows on the way in 2026.
