Hogwarts may still be months away, but fans of the Wizarding World can already catch a glimpse of the dynamic duo set to lead HBO's upcoming series. Dominic McLaughlin and Nick Frost, cast as Harry Potter and Rubeus Hagrid respectively, are already sharing the screen in the award-winning family comedy Grow, which just landed on Peacock in the U.S. on October 1. That's a full two months before the highly anticipated HBO show is expected to introduce these new faces to the magical universe.
The timing couldn't be better, as Grow also received a nomination today for Best Feature Film at the BAFTA Scotland Awards. It's a delightful coincidence that gives audiences an early taste of the chemistry between these two actors, who will soon inhabit some of the most beloved roles in fantasy cinema.
What Is 'Grow' About?
Set in the self-proclaimed pumpkin capital of the world, Grow is a heartwarming tale of unlikely bonds and fierce competition. The story centers on Dinah Little, a no-nonsense farmer who reluctantly takes in her abandoned niece, Charlie. Dinah isn't one for warm embraces, and Charlie is a whirlwind of energy, so Dinah puts her to work in the fields. But when the town's annual pumpkin-growing contest rolls around—a spectacle filled with eccentric locals and record-breaking gourds—Charlie discovers she has a special gift for connecting with plants, a talent that mirrors her own longing for love and belonging.
Who Stars in the Film?
Leading the cast is Golda Rosheuvel (known for Bridgerton) as Dinah, with Priya-Rose Brookwell (The Lazarus Project) as Charlie. McLaughlin plays Oliver, Charlie's friend, while Frost (Shaun of the Dead) portrays Arlo, a local grower with his own ambitions. The supporting ensemble is stacked with familiar faces, including Tim McInnerny (Game of Thrones), Jane Horrocks (Absolutely Fabulous), Alan Carr (Changing Ends), Joe Wilkinson (After Life), Kathryn Drysdale (Bridgerton), Fisayo Akinade (Heartstopper), Sharon Rooney (Barbie), and Jeremy Swift (Ted Lasso).
It's a charming mix of comedic and dramatic talent, making Grow a perfect appetizer for what's to come. And speaking of what's next, McLaughlin and Frost will soon find themselves in a very different kind of pumpkin patch—the one outside Hagrid's hut at Hogwarts. McLaughlin is set to lead HBO's Harry Potter series as the Boy Who Lived, while Frost takes on the role of the beloved gamekeeper, a part immortalized by the late Robbie Coltrane in the original eight films.
For those eager to see this new pairing in action before the wizarding world returns, Grow is now streaming on Peacock. It's a delightful, feel-good watch that also offers a sneak peek at the future of the franchise. And if you're craving more magical content, you might want to check out how the original films are surging on streaming as the reboot approaches.
While you wait for the HBO series, which won't be an annual event according to Casey Bloys, you can also explore other wizarding news, like the new Funko Pop! figures for the Marauders. And if you're in the mood for more streaming recommendations, Outlander continues to dominate months after its finale.
So grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy Grow—a charming preview of the magic to come.
