Since the books became a hit in the late '90s, the Harry Potter franchise has become one of the biggest cultural phenomena in the world. The eight films based on the books have only expanded this popularity, while kicking off the careers of a number of actors. Meanwhile, author J.K. Rowling has ensured her legacy while also having a universe from which she can continually generate new ideas. So far, that's led to a number of small books, stories on the Pottermore website, and a play. One of the small books, originally written for charity, was even turned into last year's film Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

While not as big of a hit as the previous movies, it still proved the franchise could be expanded and gave Rowling her first screenwriting opportunity. Now, she's hard at work on the sequelFantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them 2, which will be out next year. We've known for some time that Newt Scamander will no longer be the sole focus of the series moving forward, as the movie will seek to expand the relationship between young Grindelwald and Dumbledore. The movie will spend some time on Newt, however, especially his relationship with Leta Lestrange.

The relative of future Death Eater Bellatrix Lestrange, Leta appeared merely as a photo of actor Zoë Kravitz in the first movie. From here on out, however, she'll be getting a much more substantial role. Collider caught up with her while she was doing press for the HBO miniseries Big Little Lies, and she let it be known that we may be seeing Leta in a number of sequels.

"I think there’s a few ahead. The relationship between Leta and Newt Scamander is a complex relationship, so I think there will be a lot of time for that to grow and develop, which will be fun."

Fantastic Beasts Newt Scamander Bowtruckle

Thanks to the lore of the Wizarding World, much of Newt's full story is known. Still, his past with Leta looks to factor heavily into the story. Kravitz has proven to be a gifted performer over the years, so her increased relevance to the series will only serve to help it.

Meanwhile, the race is on for who can play a young Dumbledore. Screen Rant has a number of suggestions, as do many fans and actors. Legends of Tomorrow's Arthur Darvill is keen on the role. Fans, on the other hand, would love to see Mad Men's Jared Harris tackle the role. Whoever lands the gig will likely be a big name, worthy of going toe-to-toe with Johnny Depp's Grindelwald.

In the meantime, plot rumors have continued to swirl about the new film. The popularity of the movie has also seen the original book reprinted, as it was only available in a limited edition before. For fans of the Wizarding World, it's certainly an exciting time, as the franchise that once seemed finished is now roaring back to life. We'll bring you more news on Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them 2 as it emerges, so stay tuned.

Next: Big Little Lies Premiere Review: A Captivating, Star-Studded Mystery

Source: Collider

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