James and Oliver Phelps, best known as Fred and George Weasley in the ‘Harry Potter’ film series, captivated Filipino fans with their surprise visit to the Philippines.
The iconic twins headlined a ‘Harry Potter’-themed Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Central Square, Bonifacio Global City, on November 19, 2024, to celebrate the Philippine launch of the streaming platform, Max.
The event drew a large crowd of Harry Potter fans, who were thrilled to see the Phelps twins bring their signature charm to the festivities. After the Christmas tree lighting, the actors attended an exclusive press event at Shangri-La at the Fort, where they expressed their excitement about visiting the Philippines for the first time.
“To be out here has been absolutely fantastic,” Oliver said. “The excitement and energy are incredible. It’s always a treat to come to this part of the world.”
James added, “We’ve heard so many great things about the Philippines, especially from a Filipino contestant on our new show, Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking. He told us about how welcoming everyone is, and now we’re experiencing it firsthand.”
@lionheartv The Weasley Twins from the Harry Potter franchise, James and Oliver Phelps, graced the launch of HBO Max in the Philippines! The iconic duo led the festive Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Central Square, BGC. #JamesPhelps #OliverPhelps #HarryPotter #HBOMax #MaxAsia #EntertainmentNewsPH #TiktokTainmentPH #BestOfTiktokPH #NewsPH #LionhearTV #RAWRNation
The Phelps twins are in Asia to promote their latest project, ‘Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking.’ The Max original series features nine teams of professional bakers competing to create towering edible showpieces inspired by the Harry Potter universe.
Filmed on authentic sets from the Harry Potter films, including Diagon Alley and the Great Hall, the show offers fans a nostalgic journey back into the Wizarding World.
“These bakes are massive, over five feet tall, and inspired by iconic locations and scenes,” Oliver explained. “It’s amazing to see these bakers bring a whole new dimension to the world we grew up in.”
James teased the show’s special guest appearances by Harry Potter alumni, including Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood), Warwick Davis (Professor Flitwick), and Bonnie Wright (Ginny Weasley).
Returning to the original sets was a surreal experience for the twins. “It felt like no time had passed,” Oliver said. “Even though it’s been years, it was so familiar. It’s great to be part of something that continues to resonate with so many people.”
The Phelps twins also shared their admiration for the bakers’ creativity. Oliver recalled a standout moment when a contestant crafted a caramel mango dessert using molecular gastronomy. “It was absolutely out of this world,” he said.
The twins ended their visit with a heartfelt message for their Filipino fans. “Thank you so much for the warm welcome,” Oliver said. “The Harry Potter fanbase here is incredible, and we’re so grateful for the love.”
James added, “We hope you enjoy all the amazing content on Max, especially Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking. It’s a show that celebrates creativity, magic, and the spirit of the Wizarding World.”
Max officially launched in the Philippines and several other Asian countries on November 19, 2024. The streaming platform combines content from HBO, Cartoon Network, DC Universe, and local productions like Drag Race Philippines and On The Job.
Subscription plans start at PHP 149, with existing HBO GO subscribers automatically transitioning to Max.
