- A New Magical Experience: Audible has released a new, full-cast audiobook adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
- All-Star Lineup: The production features a star-studded cast, including Hugh Laurie as Dumbledore, Riz Ahmed as Snape, and Matthew Macfadyen as Lord Voldemort.
- Fresh Narration: The Good Wife‘s Cush Jumbo narrates the story, steering listeners through the nearly nine-hour magical journey.
- Immersive Sound: The unabridged audio experience is being praised for its fresh, lively pacing and excellent sound design that brings the wizarding world to life.
A new, magical way to experience the world of Hogwarts has arrived, and it’s already the version Potter fans can’t stop talking about. Audible has unveiled a blockbuster, full-cast audio production of the beloved classic, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, assembling a jaw-dropping cast of acting heavyweights to breathe new life into the iconic characters.
Meet the New Voices of the Wizarding World
Forget what you know from the films; this star-studded adaptation offers a completely fresh auditory journey. Leading the cast is narrator Cush Jumbo, who guides listeners through Harry’s discovery of magic. She is joined by an incredible ensemble, featuring Hugh Laurie, who brings a “twinkly mischief” to the role of the venerable Albus Dumbledore, and Michelle Gomez, whose imperious Professor McGonagall is being called a worthy match for the legendary Maggie Smith.
The cast also includes Riz Ahmed taking on the complex role of Professor Snape, Mark Addy as the lovable Hagrid, and Matthew Macfadyen lending his voice to the sinister Lord Voldemort. The iconic trio of young wizards is voiced by newcomers Frankie Treadaway as Harry Potter, Max Lester as Ron Weasley, and Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger.
A Fresh and Immersive Production
Even with a major HBO television series in the works, this new audio adaptation proves it is anything but superfluous. The 8-hour and 41-minute unabridged production feels “fresh, lively, and well-paced,” offering a complete retelling of Harry’s first year.
Following its tradition of high-budget holiday releases, Audible has ensured the sound design is exceptional. Listeners will be fully immersed in the magical atmosphere, from the whoosh of an owl landing with a letter to the distinct chug and whistle of the Hogwarts Express as it carries a new generation of students toward their destiny.
This new recording stands as a must-have for long-time fans and a perfect entry point for new listeners, proving that the magic of the wizarding world continues to find new and exciting ways to captivate audiences everywhere.
Image Referance: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/nov/05/harry-potter-and-the-philosophers-stone-by-jk-rowling-audiobook-review-an-all-star-outing