‘Harry Potter’ Star Has Hilarious Reaction to Reboot, “How Dare You!”

In 1997, British author J.K. Rowling released Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the first book in a series that would go on to change the lives of millions around the world. The story follows a young boy named Harry, whose parents died when he was an infant, leaving him to live with his cruel relatives — Uncle Vernon, Aunt Petunia, and cousin Dudley.

On his eleventh birthday, Harry discovers that he is a wizard and heads to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to begin his magical education. There, he learns that he is a living legend in the wizarding world, being the only person to have survived the Killing Curse.

Related: The Tragic Story of ‘Harry Potter’ Star’s Murder: New Documentary Reveals Unrepentant Killer

Throughout the series, Harry must return home for the summer, meaning he has to live once again with his aunt, uncle, and cousin.

In the film adaptations, the role of Aunt Petunia is played by beloved British actress Fiona Shaw. Shaw brings Petunia to life as a bitter woman who resents having to raise Harry. Petunia’s sister Lily, Harry’s mother, was the only witch in the family, and a source of pride for Petunia’s parents. Petunia feels overshadowed by Lily’s magical abilities and resents being left behind when Lily goes to Hogwarts.

After Lily and her husband, James, are killed by Lord Voldemort, Petunia is reluctantly left to care for the nephew she never wanted.

Fiona Shaw appeared as Aunt Petunia in five of the eight Harry Potter films: The Sorcerer’s Stone (also known as The Philosopher’s Stone) (2001), The Chamber of Secrets (2002), The Prisoner of Azkaban (2004), The Order of the Phoenix (2007), and The Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010).

The actress recently shared her thoughts on the reboot. Her reaction, captured during an interview at the premiere of Bad Sisters season two in New York City, combines humor with a touch of nostalgia.

When asked by PEOPLE about her feelings on the reboot, Shaw didn’t hold back. “How dare you!” she exclaimed jokingly. Shaw’s playful response immediately struck a chord with fans, many of whom share her sentiment that it feels “too soon” to revisit the iconic story with a new cast.

Shaw continued on a more serious note, wishing the new cast well while reflecting on the nature of retelling stories. “I mean, can stories be retold? They must be retold over time,” she said. “It seems to me no time [has passed] since we told it, but maybe it’s [for] a whole new generation.”

Her remarks capture the bittersweet reality of reboots: while they breathe new life into beloved stories, they also risk stepping on the toes of the originals.

The upcoming television series, announced in April 2023, aims to explore the original books in greater depth than the films. Warner Bros. has committed to a ten-season run on Max (formerly HBO Max), with J.K. Rowling attached as an executive producer. While some fans are excited to see a fresh take on the story, others have expressed concern over Rowling’s involvement, given the controversy surrounding her past statements.

Casting for the reboot is already underway, with roles for Harry, Hermione, and Ron being filled by a new generation of actors. Warner Bros. has emphasized its commitment to staying faithful to Rowling’s original vision, but the decision to move forward with the series has divided the fanbase.

As Warner Bros. moves forward with the series, questions remain about how it will honor the original films while carving out its own identity. For now, fans can take comfort in Shaw’s heartfelt words to the new cast: “I wish them well.”

Do you think Fiona Shaw is right? Is it too soon for a Harry Potter reboot? Or are you looking forward to the new series? Share your thoughts in the comments!