HBO Max is set to expand its offerings significantly, with an upcoming series based on the beloved *Harry Potter* franchise and the renewal of the Spanish original program *Furia*. Sarah Aubrey, the head of originals at HBO Max, made these announcements during the Content London industry event, emphasizing the streaming service’s commitment to enhancing its development slate.
Aubrey noted that when she joined HBO Max nearly a year ago, the platform “really needed more development money.” Her comments reflect a broader strategy to invest in original content, which is crucial for competing in the crowded streaming market. “We have this great show *Furia*, which I relate to because it’s about women’s rage,” she stated. Produced by Félix Sabroso, the series will return for a second season in 2026, featuring a fresh cast alongside several returning actors.
Expansion into European Markets
The announcements came just hours after HBO Max revealed plans to launch in several European countries, including Germany, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and Liechtenstein on January 13, 2026. This expansion is part of a strategy to solidify HBO Max’s presence in major markets where content is currently available through a partnership with Comcast’s Sky. The platform has already established a footprint in Latin America, Europe, Central Asia, and Asia Pacific since its U.S. launch in 2020.
Warner Bros. Discovery reported a total of 128 million streaming subscribers for the third quarter of 2025, indicating a strong demand for its content. Popular titles such as *The White Lotus*, *The Last of Us*, and *Hacks* have contributed to this success, alongside the anticipation surrounding the *Harry Potter* series.
Aubrey discussed the evolution of the company, highlighting that it has undergone multiple mergers and strategic shifts. She emphasized the importance of patience during the development phase, stating, “If you rush something at the development stage, it often ends in heartbreak.”
Local Originals and International Talent
As part of its European strategy, HBO Max introduced a range of upcoming local original series. These include a docuseries featuring Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida and a new project from the creative team behind Netflix’s acclaimed German series *Dark*.
Aubrey expressed enthusiasm for international talent, noting that she recently shared a teaser for the newly unveiled German original *4 Blocks Zero*, a prequel to the award-winning drama *4 Blocks*. The positive feedback from HBO’s drama chief, Francesca Orsi, indicates a strong interest in high-quality international productions.
When asked about potential original content from Australia, Aubrey mentioned that discussions are ongoing, but it is still early in the process. She also acknowledged interest in exploring the microdrama format but deferred further decisions due to her focus on the *Harry Potter* series and other significant projects.
Wrapping up her presentation, Aubrey reflected on her excitement for the *Harry Potter* adaptation. She stated, “It’s such a delightful adaptation of the books. It’s created by a British writer and directed by a British filmmaker. These people are the best that this country has to offer.” Her remarks highlight HBO Max’s commitment to quality storytelling and its dedication to bringing beloved literary works to life on screen.
As HBO Max continues to innovate and expand, audiences can expect a diverse array of content that caters to both local and international markets, affirming the platform’s role in the competitive streaming landscape.
