Jim Kay is Leaving the Illustrated Harry Potter Books. What Now?

[Dumbledore]

His art has been the heart of the illustrated editions. You open one and it’s like stepping straight into Hogwarts. I still remember seeing the Triwizard Tournament spread in Goblet of Fire and thinking, wow, this is insane. Every little detail, every shadow, every tiny creature… it’s magic.

 

 

Anyway, he’s done after Order of the Phoenix. He said it’s because of mental health stuff and the sheer amount of work required to bring these books to life. Totally fair. Those editions aren’t small projects. Hundreds of pages of color, intricate illustrations… it’s no wonder he needed a break.

The series isn’t stopping though. Bloomsbury announced Levi Pinfold is taking over for Half Blood Prince and eventually Deathly Hallows. The sixth book is expected in 2026. That’s a long wait, sure, but at least the series will be completed. Pinfold’s style is darker, more atmospheric, which could actually fit the later books really well.

 

Still… it’s weird. Jim’s Hogwarts has that warm, nostalgic feel that I can’t quite picture with anyone else. Part of me feels like we’re losing a friend’s voice mid-story. But then again, maybe it’s like watching a series evolve with new directors. The story stays the same, but the lens changes. Could be interesting.

Actually, let me rephrase… I’m not saying Kay’s art can be replaced. I’m just saying the way we’ve imagined Hogwarts for years is shifting, and it’s kind of exciting to see what comes next.

 

Anyway, what about you all? Are you planning to collect the new editions or stopping with Jim Kay’s work? I’m probably in for the long haul, but I won’t lie, it’s going to feel different.

[Craig Bowker]

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Well, you must be a Muggle... And, you've found our magical community!

In that case, I think you should join us.
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Edited November 1, 2025 by Craig Bowker

[Hana Sakura]

Who is that hiding under the invisibility cloak? Harry... Is that you? No?
Well, you must be a Muggle... And, you've found our magical community!

In that case, I think you should join us.
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Once signed in you’ll be ‘sorted’ into your Hogwarts house; where you can start creating your own personalised ‘topics’ straight away, or you can also join existing conversations with fellow fans by replying to ‘threads’ and discussions that pique your interest.

[Craig Bowker]

Who is that hiding under the invisibility cloak? Harry... Is that you? No?
Well, you must be a Muggle... And, you've found our magical community!

In that case, I think you should join us.
Enrol | Sign in

Once signed in you’ll be ‘sorted’ into your Hogwarts house; where you can start creating your own personalised ‘topics’ straight away, or you can also join existing conversations with fellow fans by replying to ‘threads’ and discussions that pique your interest.