Harry Potter TV series tightens prop security with microchips after reported thefts

LONDON: Producers of the new Harry Potter spin-off series have reportedly started microchipping props as part of tighter security measures after concerns over items going missing from the set, with broomsticks said to be among the most valuable objects being monitored.

Warning notices have been posted around the Warner Bros. Studios set in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, telling cast and crew that props are being tracked each day for inventory and security reasons. The notices also say that anyone who needs to remove a prop from the set must first obtain permission from the props department.

For inventory and security purposes, props are being tracked daily and movement of props will be logged

If you need to take any prop off set or away from this designated area, please seek approval from the props department first

The stricter controls follow several items having disappeared during production. These reportedly include wands, spell books, fake food and pumpkins used in scenes set in the Hogwarts Great Hall. Production staff are said to be looking into the missing items and checking online marketplaces, including eBay, in case any props are being offered for sale there.

Crew members have been warned that taking props could result in dismissal and possible breach-of-contract action on the £1 billion production. A source quoted said no one knows who is behind the missing items, although suspicions have reportedly fallen on background actors and crew members.

Past comments from original film cast resurface

The issue has also drawn attention because of earlier remarks by Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy in the original Harry Potter films. Felton had jokingly advised Lox Pratt, who is taking on the same role in the HBO spin-off, to keep souvenirs from the set.

Have as much fun as possible, take as many pictures as you can, steal as many props as you can – they’ll be worth a fortune. But also, if you do need a word of encouragement or questions to ask, I’m there.

Felton made the comment on the Happy Sad Confused Podcast. Many people later joked about whether members of the new cast had taken his advice too seriously.

Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter in the original film series, also reportedly lost one of the franchise’s best-known props during filming. His Firebolt broomstick was said to have fallen during production of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2007) while a flying motorbike scene with Sirius Black was being shot.

New cast named for upcoming series

The upcoming Harry Potter series is expected to debut on HBO Max. It will feature Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley.

The latest security steps underscore the value attached to props linked to the Harry Potter franchise, as production continues on the new television adaptation.