Harry Potter Fans Disappointed as King's Cross Skips Hogwarts Express Tradition
Harry Potter enthusiasts gathered at King's Cross station for the annual Back to Hogwarts event were left disheartened. The station did not announce the departure of the fictional Hogwarts Express, breaking a beloved tradition.
On September 1, 2024, Harry Potter fans experienced disappointment at London's King's Cross station. The annual Back to Hogwarts tradition, celebrating the start of the academic year at the fictional Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, did not occur as expected.
Enthusiasts gathered at the station, anticipating the customary 11 am announcement of the Hogwarts Express departing from platform 9 and three-quarters. This tradition, inspired by J.K. Rowling's books, has been a significant event for fans. In previous years, the station had displayed the fictional train service on departure boards, attracting hundreds of attendees.
However, this year, King's Cross did not mark the occasion. A video shared on social media captured the crowd's reaction, showing fans counting down to 11 am, followed by audible disappointment when nothing happened.
"Come 1st September, fans are strongly discouraged from travelling to King's Cross as there will be no event, departure board or countdown at the station."
In July 2024, Warner Bros Discovery, which owns the Harry Potter franchise, had issued a statement advising fans against traveling to King's Cross. Instead, they encouraged viewers to watch an online program hosted by Sam Thompson, a reality TV personality.
The Harry Potter series, first published in 1997, has become a global phenomenon. With over 500 million copies sold worldwide and translations into more than 80 languages, its impact on popular culture is undeniable. The idea for the series came to Rowling during a delayed train journey from Manchester to London, making the connection to King's Cross particularly significant for fans.
King's Cross station, opened in 1852, has embraced its association with the Harry Potter universe. A trolley embedded in a wall represents the fictional Platform 9¾, attracting tourists year-round. The station, a Grade I listed building, completed a major renovation in 2012, the same year the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter opened.
While the 2024 event did not meet fans' expectations, the enduring popularity of the Harry Potter series ensures that the magic continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
