19 Years Later, This 85% Fresh Sitcom Is Required Viewing Before HBO’s Harry Potter Reboot

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Gradually coming together is HBO’s reboot of the beloved series, with casting news unveiling the actors who will breathe life into the iconic characters for a fresh audience. The eagerly awaited show has locked down its central trio: Dominic McLaughlin as Harry, Arabella Stanton as Hermione, and Alastair Stout as Ron. Additionally, Nick Frost from “Shaun of the Dead” and Janet McTeer from “MobLand” are among those set to join the cast, along with Katherine Parkinson from “The IT Crowd”. Notably, Parkinson will be stepping into the role of Molly Weasley, a character previously brought to life by Julie Walters. Her portrayal infused genuine warmth and humor into the part.

As a fellow enthusiast, you might recognize Parkinson from her numerous roles throughout the years. Yet, it’s “The IT Crowd” that has left an indelible mark on her career. Similar to how she’s mainly recognized by British viewers thus far, her portrayal of the matriarch of the Weasley family is bound to boost her global recognition and display her talent for audiences worldwide. For those eager to learn more about this captivating new figure in the magical world, I recommend giving “The IT Crowd” a watch.

The IT Crowd is an Enduring and Celebrated British Comedy

As a dedicated cinema lover, I can confidently say that “The IT Crowd” holds a special niche in the annals of British sitcom history, resonating fondly with long-time enthusiasts and intriguing newcomers alike. This classic comedy revolves around the eponymous department nestled deep within the fictional Reynholm Industries in bustling London. The trio of employees, namely Jen Barber (Parkinson), Maurice Moss (Richard Ayoade), and Roy Trenneman (Chris O’Dowd), are our protagonists, toiling away together in the dimly-lit basement.

Although just recently taking on the position as the boss, Jennifer surprisingly lacks much computer knowledge. Regardless, she persists in her duties, providing numerous humorous instances within the program. Parkinson skillfully strikes each comical beat, simultaneously making Jennifer a lovable and identifiable figure.

The trio of actors played an equally important part in generating the comedic interplay among their characters, a task they executed superbly. This collaboration significantly boosted the show’s popularity and made it stand out. Additionally, Parkinson’s nuanced facial expressions subtly highlighted her dialogue, underscoring the feeling of Jen being overwhelmed.

As the series progresses, Jen doesn’t necessarily become an expert, but she becomes adept at moving through her department with assurance. Regardless of where the storyline leads her character, Parkinson gives a convincing performance that never feels contrived. It seems plausible that her character is real, particularly given traits that many viewers identify with. Parkinson was nominated for several BAFTA Awards for her role in The IT Crowd, winning two of them – one being the Best Female Comedy Performance award in 2014.

Parkinson Has Starred in a Range of Shows and Films

As a dedicated cinephile, I’ve always admired the diverse filmography that Parkinson has crafted over the years, showcasing her versatility on screen. In 2008, I had the pleasure of watching her in “How to Lose Friends and Alienate People,” where she played a compelling PR woman. This film also featured notable actors like Kirsten Dunst, Simon Pegg, and Gillian Anderson.

About a year ago, she starred as Felicity in “The Boat That Rocked.” This was followed by “St. Trinian’s 2: The Legend of Fritton’s Gold,” where she portrayed a physics teacher. In 2022, two of her latest films were released – “The Nan Movie,” where she played Nell, the younger sister to Catherine Tate’s well-known comedy character, Nan. Lastly, in 2024, she showcased her voice-acting skills in “That Christmas,” playing the animated character, Mrs. Forrest.

Between 2005 and 2009, Parkinson showcased her talent in the comedy-drama “Doc Martin,” delivering a consistently genuine and captivating performance as Pauline Lamb. This beloved British series provided a platform for Parkinson to demonstrate her acting prowess before taking on the role of Jen Barber. Since then, viewers have had the pleasure of regularly witnessing Parkinson’s performances in various productions such as “Sherlock,” “Inside No.9,” and “Rivals.” Additionally, she has made audiences laugh out loud with her appearances on numerous panel game shows.

Parkinson is an Exciting Addition to the Harry Potter Cast

Introducing her unique brand of enchantment to the franchise will be a treat for fans of Parkinson. She’s a seasoned actress, geared up to tackle a cherished series, and audiences can feel confident that her performance will be sincere and devoted. Just as we’ve witnessed time and again, Parkinson has a knack for making us laugh. Given her potential to infuse humor, similar to Walters did, Molly is in capable hands. Regardless of the character’s potential evolution, Parkinson is the ideal choice for the role.

As fans eagerly await the upcoming Harry Potter reboot, they might find the wait seems endless, but this prolonged anticipation offers a chance to familiarize yourself with the fresh faces in the cast, who are known for their exceptional acting talents like Parkinson. Although it’s set outside of Hogwarts and its magical surroundings, there’s still plenty to look forward to, such as side-splitting humor and sharp writing that make it worth investigating.

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2025-07-07 01:20