Episode #522: Revisiting ‘Deathly Hallows, Part 2’ Ten Years Later

  • Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2 turns ten years old!
  • On this episode, the MuggleCasters and Slug Club member Molly reminisce about the last film in the original series.
  • Where were we when Deathly Hallows came out?
  • We experience the touching farewell speeches given by Dan, Rupert and Emma on the red carpet in London.
  • Movie 8 has the highest Rotten Tomato rating of the whole series! And it made the most money. Can we see why?
  • We deep dive the plot of DH2 and re-learn what was new and different, including Aberforth.
  • Micah recaps the biggest omissions in adaptation from the page to the screen. Tonks’ pregnancy, portrait Dumbledore and Carrows vs. McGonagall all got changed.
  • Meanwhile, the scene in the Chamber of Secrets is shown for the first time, and Snape gets a change of scenery!
  • The hosts revisit what they were most looking forward to, after having read the book, and what scenes surprised them.
  • The Epilogue was shot, and then re-shot. Remembering the geriatric non-millennial trio and friends.
  • In this week’s debate, hosts take sides defending or criticizing the last film’s adaptation. Let us know who won via our social media poll!
  • Quizzitch: Five years after Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2, the franchise was continued with the first Fantastic Beasts film. What is the first spoken sentence of Fantastic Beasts? Visit MuggleCast.com/Quizzitch to submit your answer!
  • This week’s episode is sponsored by BetterHelp (Get 10% off by visiting BetterHelp.com/mugglecast) and HelloFresh (Get up to 14 free meals and free shipping by going to HelloFresh.com/muggle14 and using code ‘muggle14’ at checkout)
  • Support us on Patreon and receive magical benefits, like access to our recording studio, Bonus MuggleCast, a personalized thank you video from one of the hosts and more! On this month’s Bonus MuggleCast, we talk about our favorite Jude Law Dumbledore moments from Crimes of Grindelwald!

Download now

Episode #521: Young Albus Dumbledore’s Motives and Manipulations

  • With one year to go until the film’s release (we think), our Fantastic Beasts character discussions return! Up first… Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore in his younger years!
  • Jude Law: Youngledore, DumbleDAMN, Yumbledore!
  • How did Deathly Hallows help inform our knowledge of the Dumbledores before seeing Crimes of Grindelwald? Aunt Muriel and Rita Skeeter weigh in!
  • Did Albus fail in his responsibility to take care of both Ariana and Aberforth?
  • What was so terrifying about the duel between Dumbledore and Grindelwald?
  • Exactly what happened during the fight that killed Ariana?
  • Why was Ariana seemingly kept a secret from the larger wizarding world?
  • Gellert the Manipulator: did Grindelwald go to Godric’s Hollow with the intent of meeting the Dumbledores?
  • Was Ariana Dumbledore the first person to die “for the greater good”?
  • Why does Dumbledore have such a close & trusting relationship with Newt?
  • Even at a young age, Dumbledore didn’t see eye-to-eye with the Ministry
  • The Blood Pact : does it really need to exist? Is it too Horcruxy?
  • We revisit the Credence/Aurelius Dumbledore reveal! Do we buy it?
  • What’s next for Dumbledore in the Fantastic Beasts storyline?
  • Quizzitch: Ciaran Hinds, who portrays Aberforth Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2, starred alongside fellow Potter alums Gary Oldman, Toby Jones and John Hurt in the film adaptation of this novel by John le Carre, what is the name of the movie? Visit MuggleCast.com/Quizzitch to submit your answer!
  • This week’s episode is sponsored by ThirdLove (Get 20% off your first purchase) and Quip (Get $5 off their mouthwash starter kit!).
  • Support us on Patreon and receive magical benefits, like access to our recording studio, Bonus MuggleCast, a personalized thank you video from one of the hosts and more! On this month’s Bonus MuggleCast, we talk about our favorite Jude Law Dumbledore moments from Crimes of Grindelwald!

Download now

Episode #520: The Most Shocking Moments in Fandom History, Part 2: Encyclopedia Flip Flop, More Wizarding Schools, Fantastic Beasts

  • We continue our discussion on the most shocking moments in Harry Potter fandom history, with some stories you’ll remember and others you probably forgot about!
  • In 2012, Micah discovered that JKR had announced she was actively working on a Harry Potter Encyclopedia, but it was quickly retracted once the story got out.
  • In 2013, Rowling was outed as male author Robert Galbraith by a lawyer’s… wife’s… friend… and a British newspaper.
  • Later that same year, only a week after MuggleCast “ended,” the Fantastic Beasts film series was announced!
  • Years later, can we all agree Fantastic Beasts IS a prequel?
  • Dumbledore’s appearance in Crimes of Grindelwald and the casting of Jude Law was a delightful surprise.
  • In 2016, more Wizarding World schools were announced, and controversy may have prevented us from getting more that were promised.
  • The same year, the stage show Cursed Child is announced, and debuts in 2 parts! We revisit the original description of the show, which is very different than the final product.
  • Honorable mentions submitted by our listeners include Ron/Hermione regrets, Rowling on Twitter, and the Wizards Unite game.
  • We also reflect on the actors we’ve lost over the years.
  • To wrap up our discussion, each of the hosts speculates on which crazy “impossible” idea will be the next shocking news story in fandom.
  • Quizzitch: Who portrayed the character of Barry Fairbrother on the BBC series adaptation of the Casual Vacancy? Visit MuggleCast.com/Quizzitch to submit your answer!
  • This week’s episode is sponsored by
  • Support us on Patreon and receive magical benefits, like access to our recording studio, Bonus MuggleCast, a personalized thank you video from one of the hosts and more! On this month’s Bonus MuggleCast, we share our thoughts on a Harry Potter cast reunion!

Download now

Episode #519: The Most Shocking Moments in Fandom History, Part 1: JKR v The Lexicon, The Deathly Hallows Split, Pottermore

  • Welcome back Andy, of Harry Potter Fan Zone (and PotterNoMore.com)!
  • This is Part 1 of a two-part discussion, wherein the hosts discuss the most Shocking Moments in Harry Potter Fandom History.
  • First up: In 2005, JK Rowling invites fan site heads Emerson and Melissa to her house!
  • In 2007, before Deathly Hallows and high-speed internet, a live stream revealed a new Harry Potter theme park! What was the significance of a Potter-themed park at the time? And why did Rowling say no to Disney?
  • …but Andy had already been to a Harry Potter theme park, down in Australia, called Warner Bros. “Movie World”!
  • Also in 2007, JKR Fan Site Award winner The HP Lexicon was taken to court by JKR/WB over their plans for a book. How did this feel to us as fellow fan site workers?
  • The split that changed it all: How WB’s decision to break up The Deathly Hallows changed history and set the bar for future film franchises to come.
  • Half-Blood Prince’s unexpected release date postponement disappointed fans like few things had at the time. Andrew had made a reaction video and a new version of the HBP trailer.
  • Pottermore announced: We discuss the early days of the website, why it was so special, and what ultimately happened to it.
  • Stay tuned next week for more shocking news moments, like the time JKR confirmed she was finally writing an Encyclopedia, Fantastic Beasts coming into existence, the earliest Cursed Child information, and so much more.
  • This week’s episode is sponsored by MeUndies. Get the most comfortable undies with the coolest prints by visiting MeUndies.com/mugglecast. You’ll get 15% off your first order and free shipping!
  • Support us on Patreon and receive magical benefits, like access to our recording studio, Bonus MuggleCast, a personalized thank you video from one of the hosts and more! On this month’s Bonus MuggleCast, we share our thoughts on a Harry Potter cast reunion!

Download now

Episode #518: The Lazy Sorting Hat, Pre-DH Final Battle Theories, Hypocrite Draco, and More MuggleMail

  • It’s a MuggleMail episode!
  • But first: Micah & Eric visit the newly-opened Harry Potter New York flagship store and share some pro tips for fans looking to visit in the near future!
  • What are some of the top items? And more importantly, how is the butterbeer?
  • To celebrate Pride Month in the Wizarding World, listeners send in their favorite LGBTQ+ couples
  • Voicemails cover Draco’s “real” dad, the Battle of Hogwarts, Sprout & Snape’s relationship and more!
  • Do the they teach sex education at Hogwarts?
  • One listener gives us an epic ending for Trelawney in the Battle of Hogwarts!
  • What are some details left out of the Potter movies that should be in the TV show?
  • How are wizards educated in early academics?
  • Why does Draco criticize students for staying at Hogwarts during the holidays when HE DOES IT HIMSELF?
  • We reminisce about where we all though the final battle of the series would take place and the significance of The Veil!
  • In Chamber of Secrets, did Harry have an immediate connection to the Diary Horcrux that we all overlooked?
  • Selfish Harry! Did Ginny have any say in the naming of her children?
  • Draco would NEVER wear Muggle clothes (sorry movies)!
  • Was it a matter of convenience that most wizarding families were sorted into the same House (ex: Weasleys)?
  • One listener shares a really profound email on fan fiction
  • Quizzitch: June 21st is the 18th Anniversary of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, the longest Potter book ever written. How many chapters are contained in Book 5? Visit MuggleCast.com/Quizzitch to submit your answer!
  • This week’s episode is sponsored by UE Fits (Visit UE.com/fits and use promo code ‘MuggleCast’ for 15% off) and BetterHelp (Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/mugglecast).
  • Support us on Patreon and receive magical benefits, like access to our recording studio, Bonus MuggleCast, a personalized thank you video from one of the hosts and more! On this month’s Bonus MuggleCast, we share our thoughts on a Harry Potter cast reunion!

Download now

Episode #517: The Potter Fandom’s Life-Changing Support for LGBTQ+ People

  • Welcome Swish and Flick‘s Meg & Katie!
  • Main Discussion: Celebrating Pride Month in the Harry Potter fandom
  • Andrew, Meg & Katie share their personal experiences of coming out and the feeling of safety in the Potter fan community
  •  What is it about the Harry Potter fandom that makes it a welcoming place for diversity? What have the hosts noticed about inclusion at Potter events?
  • What’s a “different” thing about the other hosts that the fandom didn’t judge them for?
  • Why was it such a big deal to reveal Dumbledore’s sexuality? What other gay characters were in pop culture at the time?
  • How important is it for us to remember the time at which the Harry Potter series was written?
  • Does the lack of an LGBTQ+ character in the Harry Potter series speak to its larger diversity issue?
  • Would J.K. Rowling  have viewed including a gay character as a risk? Would publishers be concerned about how parents might react to a gay character?
  • We discuss the possible sexualities of several Potter characters, including Nymphadora Tonks, Charlie Weasley, Remus Lupin, Sirius Black and more
  • Quizzitch: A witch named Glenda Chittock hosts this program on the Wizarding Wireless Network, dedicated to interviewing musicians. What is the name of the program? Visit MuggleCast.com/Quizzitch to submit your answer!
  • This week’s episode is sponsored by MasterClass (Get 15% off an annual subscription at MasterClass.com/mugglecast) and MeUndies, makers of the most comfortable underwear (get 15% off your first order at MeUndies.com/mugglecast).
  • Support us on Patreon and receive magical benefits, like access to our recording studio, Bonus MuggleCast, a personalized thank you video from one of the hosts and more!

Download now

Episode #516: Can Draco Malfoy Ever Be Forgiven?

  • The Harry Potter Store in New York City is now open. Will Micah be going?
  • In celebration of the character’s birthday, today we are discussing all things Draco Malfoy.
  • Malfoy’s name implies he will act in bad faith, and his horoscope suggests a duality of character. Do the hosts agree?
  • According to LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4, Malfoy’s Boggart is Lord Voldemort. Is this canon? Are there any other things his Boggart might be?
  • We all agree Tom Felton was an excellent choice for Draco, and we love how active he is in fandom today.
  • Fun Segment: To kick off our in-depth character analysis, the hosts recap the Top 7 Moments Draco was a Jerk
  • While the first four moments were concerning, the top three moments could have or did result in the loss of life!
  • Can Draco Malfoy be redeemed? How much of his upbringing is to blame for his casual racism?
  • Is there a “sweet spot” age where Draco can be held responsible for all of his actions, and if so, when?
  • Drawing from Cursed Child, all the hosts strangely agree that Draco would be a good father as a result of his actions.
  • Are there actions of Draco’s that are truly unforgivable? What behavior would the hosts never forgive in their personal life?
  • Which characters from Harry Potter would never forgive Draco? Which ones would?
  • Finally, the hosts all try to say something nice about Draco!
  • Quizzitch: The constellation Draco was so named for its appearance of being like a dragon.. Who first named the constellation Draco?Visit MuggleCast.com/Quizzitch to submit your answer!
  • This week’s episode is sponsored by ThirdLove (Get 20% off your first purchase) and Quip (Try their new mouthwash today!).

Download now

Episode #515: Prisoner of Azkaban Movie Commentary

This week’s episode is our fifth-ever Wizarding World movie commentary! Watch Prisoner of Azkaban with the MuggleCasters, and listen as we react in real-time to everything happening. Is this movie as bad as some people say it is? What do we love and hate about it? We discuss it all as we watch!

Note: You will need your own copy of Prisoner of Azkaban in order to watch with us. We will help you sync up the movie with us at the start of the commentary track. We strongly recommend listening to this episode with your own copy of the movie. Otherwise, it may be difficult to follow along with what we’re discussing.

See more of our movie commentaries on our Must-Listens page.

Download now

Episode #514: Revisiting Harry Potter Fansites During Summer 2007

  • The Cursed Child will not reopen with other Broadway shows this Fall as it rethinks its length and structure, targeting a 2022 return
  • What’s at the heart of this decision? We discuss a few ways The Cursed Child could accomplish a cutdown version of the show.
  • Main Discussion: Revisiting The Best of MuggleNet and other Potter Fan Sites, particularly during the biggest year for Harry Potter
  • The hosts revisit their roles and how they got their start in the Potter fandom
  • The layouts, the countdowns, the breaking news: what were some of our favorite parts of  MuggleNet?
  • The Wall of Shame, Editorials, MuggleSpace and more!
  • Be sure to check out older versions of MuggleNet using The Wayback Machine!
  • What was the rivalry like with other Harry Potter fansites?
  • The hosts read their old staff profiles from 2007 – laughter… and cringing ensue!
  • Our patrons share their favorite parts and memories of MuggleNet
  • Quizzitch: Some of the earliest Harry Potter fan conventions were run by a group called HPEF. What does HPEF stand for? Visit MuggleCast.com/Quizzitch to submit your answer!
  • This week’s episode is sponsored by MasterClass (Get 15% off an annual subscription at MasterClass.com/mugglecast) and BetterHelp (Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/mugglecast).
  • Next week: We’ll be releasing a brand-new movie commentary on Prisoner of Azkaban. The following week we’ll be off for the Memorial Day holiday. So, we’ll see you on June 7! In the meantime, check out some of our past episodes on the Wall of Fame!
  • Support us on Patreon and receive magical benefits, like access to our recording studio, Bonus MuggleCast, a personalized thank you video from one of the hosts and more! This week, on Bonus MuggleCast, the hosts reflect on what the party scene was like at Potter conferences.

Download now

Episode #513: Why is Hufflepuff’s Professor Sprout So Absent From the Harry Potter Series?

  • Welcome Slug Club member, Franzi!
  • Main Discussion: Professor Sprout & Herbology’s Role in the Harry Potter Series
  • To start off, the hosts test their skills in a new game: Potter Plant or… Pokemon?
  • What’s the first word that comes to mind when you think of Professor Sprout?
  • What does Sprout’s name origin tell us about her character?
  • Miriam Margoyles shined in her limited screen time in the Potter films
  • The Chronicles of Sprout and McGonagall are canon – should it be a spin-off series?
  • Laura dishes on some good Sprout fan fictions as we revisit the Splitwick publishing controversy!
  • Does Professor Sprout’s character suffer from lack of representation? How would we rank her in comparison to other heads of house? 
  • Does the connection between Professor Sprout and Hufflepuff house get lost on the reader? Is she not that memorable for the average reader? 
  • Do Sprout (Hufflepuff) and Flitwick (Ravenclaw) suffer from not being focal points of Harry’s story and attention? 
  • Top Sprout Moments in the Potter series include devil’s snare, mandrakes, keeping Hogwarts open and more
  • Sprout, Snape, and Neville:  we discuss Herbology’s role in the series and its relationship to Potions
  • Quizzitch: What is the common name of the family of flowering plants, solenacaeae, which include tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, bell and chili peppers? Visit MuggleCast.com/Quizzitch to submit your answer!
  • This week’s episode is sponsored by ThirdLove (Visit ThirdLove.com/MuggleCast for 20% off your perfect fitting bra) and Quip (visit GetQuip.com/muggle to get a free plastic gum dispenser with any refill plan).
  • Support us on Patreon and receive magical benefits, like access to our recording studio, Bonus MuggleCast, a personalized thank you video from one of the hosts and more!

Download now