Harry Potter enthusiasts faced disappointment at King’s Cross station after the annual Hogwarts announcement was cancelled. Footage shows hundreds of fans eagerly pointing their phones at the station’s departure board, anticipating the appearance of the Hogwarts Express train alongside an announcement.
The crowd expressed their discontent with loud boos when no fictional departure for platform 9 and three-quarters was announced at 11am, as depicted in JK Rowling’s books. This tradition sees Potter fans gathering at the station to mark the beginning of the academic year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
In past years, station staff participated by making announcements over the tannoy accompanied by the Harry Potter theme song. However, before Sunday, Warner Bros Discovery, the owner of the Harry Potter franchise, advised fans against travelling to the station.
Harry Potter fans were left disappointed after the annual tradition of the Kings Cross Hogwarts announcement didn’t happening today pic.twitter.com/5myFuDRh8e
— UB1UB2 West London (Southall) (@UB1UB2) September 1, 2024
Instead, they suggested tuning into a YouTube programme hosted by Sam Thompson, winner of I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! They stated: ‘On 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.
‘Instead, everyone is invited to join proud Hufflepuff and King of the Jungle, Sam Thompson, in a specially recorded online programme celebrating Back to Hogwarts.’ Network Rail, which manages the station, mentioned the challenges posed by last year’s attendance.
A Network Rail spokesperson said: ‘While our station concourses are sometimes used for commercial events, our priority must always be passengers making their journeys on the railway. ‘What began as a small gathering of fans waving off the Hogwarts Express has grown significantly in popularity, with last year’s event drawing thousands to King’s Cross, making it challenging for us as station operators.
‘This year there is no in-person event, but online celebrations are available for people nationwide to enjoy.’
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Week reports that Harry Potter fans were disappointed when there was no announcement of the Hogwarts Express at King’s Cross station, despite the annual tradition.(read more)
- The Guardian reports on the disappointment of Harry Potter fans who booed at King’s Cross after the annual ‘Back to Hogwarts’ announcement failed to take place, despite thousands gathering in hopes of seeing the Hogwarts Express depart.(read more)
- MyLondon reports that Harry Potter fans were left disappointed and booing after the annual Hogwarts Express announcement at King’s Cross Station failed to materialise.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why was the Hogwarts announcement at King’s Cross station canceled?
Warner Bros Discovery discouraged fans from traveling due to the event’s growing size and logistical challenges.
What do fans usually expect at King’s Cross station on September 1st?
Fans expect an announcement for the Hogwarts Express train departure from platform 9 and three-quarters.
What alternative event was offered instead of the King’s Cross gathering?
Fans were invited to watch a YouTube program hosted by Sam Thompson.
Why did Network Rail not support the event this year?
Network Rail found managing the large crowds challenging and prioritized passengers making their journeys.
Who hosted the online celebration for Back to Hogwarts?
The online celebration was hosted by Sam Thompson.