7 Key Moments That Explain Queen Charlotte’s Stoic Personality

queen charlotte

I'm being completely candid when I say that my first impression of Queen Charlotte was wildly inaccurate. I actually want to meet the person who said, "First impressions are everything," because that's not necessarily true. Just like it's impossible to know everything about someone when you first meet them, viewers couldn't have imagined the things young Charlotte endured to become the queen we know today.

After learning more about her backstory, it's easy to see why she's become the stoic queen we know in Bridgerton. She understands that human nature is fickle, she demands excellence, and she's hopeful to catch glimpses of deep and true love. Because like Brimsley said towards the end of Queen Charlotte, she's frozen in time, endlessly longing (and waiting) for the dream life she had right at her fingertips.

This dream deferred isn't a simple characteristic that can be pinned down to one succinct moment, though. Here are the 7 key moments that add up to become the Queen Charlotte, ever-so frozen in time, we see currently.

1. Queen Charlotte was only 17 years old when her marriage to King George was arranged.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

Young Charlotte has always protested against things that felt unfair to her, but she couldn't change the fact that she'd have to leave her home in Germany behind in favor of a life in London with a man she'd never met. It's something we learned that George also protested prior to their fateful meeting at the garden wall.

The scene where Charlotte is in the carriage with her brother Adolphus hits home because I've never forgotten how unsure of myself I felt at 17 years old. It's an age where most teens are on the precipice of entering adulthood which can be really confusing. To have the burden of figuring out adulthood and marriage placed on your shoulders is something I couldn't possibly fathom for anyone.

2. Queen Charlotte was kept in the dark about King George's condition for a while.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

Shortly after getting married to King George, Charlotte spent a lot of her days and nights alone because George kept himself away from her. It's almost like no one expected this 17 year old girl — who realizes she actually is attracted to the man she just married — to want to be in her husband's presence. It was a truly lonely existence, but the staff frankly seemed to be bound by Princess Augusta's demands for silence.

It was only after several tense moments and long, lonely days that Charlotte began piecing together that something was amiss with George. Something he was scared for her to see lest she think he was truly a "troll or a beast."

3. Queen Charlotte and King George truly fell in love.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

But, learning about George's condition and how he was treated for the sake of 'healing him' only affirmed Charlotte's unwavering love for him. Her heart was with him, and she quite literally dug her heels in to let everyone know she'd remain by his side.

When I think about what it means to fully abide by one's vows, Bridgerton's depiction of Queen Charlotte is the embodiment of that.

4. Charlotte had to assume a ton of responsibility once she decided to embrace her role as Queen.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

Of course this meant Queen Charlotte had to begin assuming the responsibilities of a Royal whether George was fully present or not. It's like young Lady Danbury told her, "You are the first of our kind."

Because of Charlotte's determination, she created the inclusive Ton we've come to see. Charlotte's the one who suggested opening the gates to mingle with the Ton during balls instead of creating a line of separation between the Head of the Church and the citizens being ruled over. Are things perfect? No, but she made strides and she put her foot down when she had to.

TBH, I still think about the moment she kicked George's doctor off the premises for using methods of torture to 'cure' him.

5. Queen Charlotte's love for King George eclipsed the ways she was able to be present for their children.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

As amazing as Queen Charlotte's efforts were, it's hard for anyone to ignore how much she was unable to give her children. I honestly don't think she intended to be cold to them or spend all her time focused on her royal responsibilities, but her love for King George eclipsed the love she had for her own children.

She spent so much time making sure the Ton never questioned her ability to keep things afloat in spite of George's absence that she couldn't see much else. I can only imagine how much of a lonely existence that must've been — for both she and her children.

6. Queen Charlotte lives vicariously through those who find love in the midst of her own form of matchmaking.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

The one thing that truly brought Queen Charlotte joy is the seeing others fall in love and have their own version of what she found with King George. I used to think finding the Diamond of the Season was pointless, but I realize she's not trying to punish anyone. She remembers what it was like to not have a choice in love, so she allows for several suitors to be available for who she feels deserves to be courted that particular season.

It's not the most efficient matchmaking service, but even she can admit that something good always comes from being positioned for love.

7. Queen Charlotte waits for moments when King George is lucid — which have lessened over the years.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

Lastly, Queen Charlotte is forever waiting for those moments when King George remembers their love. I doubt he's ever forgotten her, but I think his condition creates confusion that keeps him frozen in time, too. To him, Queen Charlotte will always be his beautiful Lottie who didn't go over the wall.

To her, King George will always be the man she fell in love with at first sight and taught her what it means to love someone unconditionally.

These moments come together to create a queen that yearns for love — her love — and seemingly can't ever have it on her terms. King George's mental faculties continue to deteriorate, leaving her lonelier than ever. So when you consider the way she channels this energy into the Ton and their many matters of the heart, it makes sense. She may be a woman on pause, waiting for any mere morsel of lucidity with King George, but that doesn't keep her inner romantic from creeping out into all her other endeavors.

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Bridgerton is all about the relationships — both platonic and romantic — and, apparently, both onscreen and off. While fans are wondering if Luke Thompson's Benedict will end up with Cressida Cowper, he's been spotted IRL with Harriet Cains (Philippa Featherington). And Harriet's onscreen sister Bessie Carter just shared some super cute PDA with Sam Phillips, whose character Lord Debling was interested in Penelope Featherington. Confused yet?!

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Sam Phillips and Bessie Carter were spotted sharing some PDA on a walk in Sussex, U.K. on June 22, 2024. Bessie dressed in a classic leggings, tee shirt, and pullover hoodie combo (which, if you ask me, is literally the coziest thing ever!) while Sam opted for a tee shirt and corduroy baseball cap.

This isn't the first time Bessie and Sam have been spotted together. They attended the finale celebration for The Crown season 6 alongside Bessie's parents Jim Carter and Imelda Staunton (who played Queen Elizabeth II during the final two seasons of the hit Netflix show), as well as the Wonka premiere. And after Bessie's role as Nancy Mitford in Outrageous was confirmed, Sam shared it to his Instagram story with a red heart emoji.

Bessie Carter gets along great with the rest of her Bridgerton costars as well, and recently shared a carousel of polaroid photos from their time on the season 3 set.

"Simply the best eggs," she says on Instagram. "Photos taken by the BEST @david.mumeni who joins the gang this season."

"Never have this author’s eyes ever seen such pleasing portraits…" the official Bridgerton account commented. I have to agree!

Bridgerton season 3 really is the gift that keeps on giving! After you've analyzed the season 3 ending, check out Lady Whistledown Just Teased The Bridgerton Season 4 Couple for the latest news on the series.

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We're just a little over four months away from the premiere of Gladiator 2and the anticipation is real. It's no secret that we've been imagining what Paul Mescal will look like while he's in battle, but we were admittedly unprepared for the first look at him as Lucius. Just typing the name makes us feel warm and fuzzy inside. Maybe even spicy.

But Vanity Fairtruly gave us a treat because they shared even more BTS looks at the Gladiator 2 cast. By the looks of it, this movie is going be the pre-Thanksgiving treat we talk about over dinner.

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We just have one question: Is it too late to apply to be extras in Gladiator 2? Based on Paul Mescal's muscles, it appears his character Lucius has been training for the exact moment he'll enter the area to fight his opponents.

Just look at his stance in the first image. That is the stance of a confident man who's strategically planning how to take down whoever dares to approach him with malicious intent in their eyes.

Aside from that, we're excited to see Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, Denzel Washington, and Joseph Quinn lose themselves in their characters. Speaking of Joseph Quinn, we almost didn't recognize him as Emperor Geta!

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Lucius definitely looks like he knows how to skillfully wield a sword — and do serious damage to his opponents. Also, there's something in his eyes that signals he is not there to lose.

No one ever said being a gladiator would be easy, but a part of us wishes we could be the extras that wipe the blood and sweat from Lucius' brow after each battle. Alas, we'll just have to pine for him from afar.

We hope you have as much fun scrolling through Vanity Fair's first look at Gladiator 2 as we are.

P.S. We won't tell anyone if you screenshot a few of these pics...for research.

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Though I'm a huge fan of Bridgerton Season 3, I'm a little sad that Simone Ashley (Kate Bridgerton née Sharma) and Jonathan Bailey (Lord Anthony Bridgerton) didn't get as much screen time. They're my second favorite couple next to Queen Charlotte and King George, so I'd love for their story to be explored more... in a spinoff 👀.

It should come as no surprise that other fans feel the same, but they're not the only ones! Simone Ashley herself said she's interested in working on a spinoff about Kate and Anthony. In fact, she's all game if it happens...so maybe it's only a matter of time before such a wish comes true! Here's what we know so far!

What could happen in a Kate and Anthony "Bridgerton" spinoff?

Liam Daniel/Netflix

One eager fan took to Reddit to share a few ideas for a potential spinoff for Kate and Anthony. "Think about it, we all know that we want more Antony and Kate, we can get some fun fish out of water antics from Antony as he learns about Indian culture, and it would allow the show runners to expand the universe of Bridgeton. We can have some drama involving Edwina and her new husband, maybe a love interest for their mother, there’s all sorts of opportunities for story there!"

Another fan commented, "I want a jewel toned house...large inner courtyards as are unique to Indian architecture called aangans..."

This definitely sounds like something I'd watch!

How does Simone Ashley feel about a Kate and Anthony spinoff?

Liam Daniel/Netflix

She shared her enthusiasm for a potential Kate and Anthony Bridgerton spinoff with Premiere magazine by saying, "I would love it. This world is so big and these characters are so deep that there is plenty to explore about them."

She also hinted that fans could see more of the couple. "I don't want to give too much away, but I think there could be several seasons to come about Kate and Anthony."

Will we see more of Kate and Anthony in "Bridgerton Season 4?"

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Since we have a while before we learn more Season 4's official news, all we know is that Simone Ashley is hopeful about Kate and Anthony's appearances.

She told People, "Both Johnny and I, we adore our characters...I think we'll do all we can with our schedules to make it work so that we can, hopefully."

Do you want to see a Kate and Anthony Bridgerton spinoff? Let us know on Facebook!

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Your first weekly horoscope for July is in, and there's a lot of good stuff coming your way! As we dive deeper into the warm embrace of Cancer season, it's time to bask in the celestial glow of Venus cruising through the sign of the Crab. This week isn't just about soaking up the sun; it's a cosmic invitation to delve into what truly lights up our hearts and brings us joy.

Whether planning beach getaways with friends, cozying up with a loved one for a movie night, or simply relishing some solo time under the stars, this is your time to shine. So, grab your sunglasses, pull out your favorite summer playlist, and let's continue to venture on this path of self-discovery and joy. Let the warmth of the season and the guiding light of Venus lead you to moments that fill your heart to the brim.

With that in mind, here's what all you can expect in your weekly horoscope!

Weekly Horoscope Themes For July 1-7

Tanya Staton

This week presents opportunities to explore our relationships and things that bring happiness. The love planet Venus is in the sign of Cancer, and it will be our guiding celestial body, shedding light on where we are in our journey regarding relationships and emotional security. Like last week, the best course in navigating Cancer season is to align primarily with your heart and intuition to help narrow down the root of your needs.

Listen carefully before reacting.

We begin the week by focusing on deepening our emotional connections and commitments, as Venus is in sextile with Juno on July 1. If you are in a relationship, your union will turn toward harmony as you engage in heartfelt discussions while factoring in compassion for past misunderstandings. If you're not in a relationship and need to make amends with anyone else who pulls your heartstrings, you can get to the source of your disconnect. If this isn't possible, write a letter, journal, or meditate on what you desire to release to attract peace.

Energetically, you will experience a breakthrough in your love story as you open your heart.

The veil begins to lift as Neptune's retrograde starts on July 2. It will remain in this backspin motion until October 11. You are encouraged to reflect on your spiritual beliefs and intentions in life. Slow down and assess your approach to living your authentic self while becoming aligned with your soul. This retrograde period also invites you to reassess your dreams and bring the truth to light regarding unresolved matters. On the same day, Mercury enters Leo, infusing you with the ability to articulate your ideas with confidence and charisma. If you're also in need of star power in your relationship, this day will fully support you if you wish to initiate a conversation regarding structure and intention with Venus in trine to Saturn. Prioritize your responsibilities while narrowing down what's needed to create stability in your love life. It will also be favorable to solidify your bonds and make practical investments.

On July 3, be mindful of intense communications and power struggles as Mercury opposes Pluto. This aspect may bring hidden tensions to the surface, urging you to navigate through deep psychological insights and potential conflicts. Then, the New Moon in Cancer on July 5 marks a powerful new beginning in matters of home, family, and emotional security. Set intentions for nurturing relationships and creating a supportive environment for personal growth. Factor intuition and perform a manifestation ritual involving what you desire within your emotional security.

Healing in relationships takes center stage on July 6 with Venus square Chiron. This planetary duo highlights vulnerabilities and past wounds, encouraging you to hold a compassionate space for yourself and others. This day will show how to step into your self-acceptance regarding unresolved issues. Let go and believe in your light as you focus on the good you have done solo or in a partnership. Observe your relationship dynamics with empathy and openness to facilitate healing and growth. July 7 brings surprises and opportunities for excitement in both love and creativity with Venus sextile Uranus. Expect a flash of insight or inspiration that will ignite innovation and spontaneity in your relationships and artistic endeavors. Mercury sextile Jupiter on the same day will boost your mental agility, bringing optimism and positive communication. This aspect supports learning, travel, and sharing ideas, making it an excellent time for broadening your perspective and seeking new opportunities. Overall, this week invites deep emotional insights, healing in relationships, and expansive growth in creativity and communication. Stay open to new experiences and embrace the transformative energies at play.

Key Transits This Week

Claire Craig

  • 7/1 Venus sextile Juno
  • 7/2 Neptune Retrograde, Mercury enters Leo, Venus trine Saturn
  • 7/3 Mercury opposite Pluto
  • 7/5 New Moon in Cancer
  • 7/6 Venus square Chiron
  • 7/7 Venus sextile Uranus, Mercury sextile Jupiter

Read Your Sun, Moon, & Rising Signs For Your Weekly Horoscope

Paula Sotomayor

Aries (March 21 - April 19)

Prepare to set your priorities in order, Aries. This week, you can strengthen your family bonds and find security in your home life. Mercury's shift into Leo will power up your creativity and stimulate endless sweet nothings with your beloved. Rekindling the fire in your love life will begin as you solidify your terms. Midweek, be mindful of your choice of words or messages when Mercury opposes Pluto. Be the observer in this scenario and avoid jumping to conclusions. Then, the New Moon in Cancer will open a new chapter for you that invites intentions for nurturing domestic harmony and emotional well-being. This cosmic event will seal the deal of powering up your manifestation game when you set a new and intentional path involving your emotional comfort and security.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

Expect to be a busybody this week, Taurus. This is your time to focus on your genuine connections while powering up your self-expression. As Venus textiles Juno, your social calendar will be filled, or you will experience fun-filled conversations with friends or siblings as Venus sextiles Juno. If single, go to a local fair or singles event – it can be your lucky week to make a connection. As Neptune retrograde happens, this is your time to reflect on your aspirations and to get involved with the community. Focus on service to get inspired. Make practical decisions regarding your spending and learn how to budget for your future when Venus trines Saturn. The New Moon in Cancer prompts fresh starts in learning new skills or communication ventures.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)

What does security mean for you, Gemini? Your focus this week will be on how you can claim financial stability while powering up your self-worth. Venus sextile Juno encourages discussions and investments, ensuring security in your material resources. Name your terms. Reflect on your personal beliefs and communication style as Neptune retrogrades, scoping your ideas with philosophical ideals and enhancing self-expression. It is time to accept the life you have built and analyze what needs to change. As Venus trines Saturn this week, you will make sense of your past ideas and be able to utilize them for financial gain. Revisit the root of your passions to help you get started. As an extra boost to your future venture, the New Moon in Cancer initiates a new path for you to pursue stability while gaining confidence in pursuing your goals that align with your heart.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)

Your birthday month continues, Cancer! Who do you want to be? The early part of the week will grant you cosmic stardust to help you express your true self while nurturing your emotional well-being. As Venus sextiles Juno, your charisma will level up, and your connections will deepen with your local connections. Your voice will strengthen as you communicate from a heartfelt space. The Neptune retrograde will reset your approach to life and help you reignite your sacred self. Begin a meditation practice, go to a sacred place, or start setting goals that involve travel or enhanced study. You also turn over a new leaf as the New Moon shines in your sign, igniting a fresh start in your personal growth and confidence. Believe in your light, and know you shine even stronger as you remain open and receptive to the Universe

Ajaila Walker

Leo (July 23 - August 22)

Are you ready to roar loud and proud, Leo? This week will be cathartic regarding how you approach your unhealed insecurities as Venus sextiles Juno, and your intuition and connectedness to the Universe will magnify. You will understand the root of what needs healing and acceptance. Mercury's presence in your sign will power up your voice and grant you the confidence you need to pursue your dreams. The Neptune retrograde upgrades your understanding of how your energy works. Begin your process of inner work or self-care practices that involve vulnerability and energy work. The New Moon in Cancer infuses renewal into your dreams and subconscious realms. Slow down and become selective in how you extend your energy. Know and fall in love with yourself again.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)

Are you in love, Virgo? Get ready to open your heart and deepen your connections. It's time to ignite the spark back into your life, and it all begins from the inside. Venus sextile Juno will grant you the space to build solidity in your connections with friends and networks. This week will be golden as you take a chance. A Neptune retrograde in your relationship sector will lift the veil regarding your commitments with partners. Truthful exchanges lead to progression in your story. If you feel stagnancy regarding your aspirations, things will change as the New Moon in Cancer revamps your vitality to pursue your goals. Like a boss, step out of your comfort zone and try a new approach to attract the desired changes.

Libra (September 23 - October 22)

Get ready to witness a paradigm shift, Libra. Expect to feel magnetic and inspired to take on challenges that will get you one step closer to your goals. Your love planet, Venus, in sextile with Juno, will revamp your profession and elevate you to a different status. As Neptune retrograde begins, it prompts you to slow down and review your daily routines and working environment. What needs to change? As you cater to your mind, body, and spiritual needs, you will witness positive changes in your life. Luckily, the New Moon in Cancer will spark a fresh opportunity in your career. It's time to launch a project, extend a pitch, or step into a more defined position. You are ready.

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

Do you believe in magic, Scorpio? This week, witness the quintessential upgrades in your connectedness to life and love. Whatever you set your eyes on, your life will begin to pan out better. Venus sextile Juno will extend support and authentic connections with friends or networks. Reach out and express your passions. Neptune retrograde will slow down your processes and enable you to see clearly what you truly desire in love and creative pursuits. Still yourself and observe your inner world to help clear out any unresolved dealings. A new wave of inspiration awaits regarding your personal development and self-improvement. The New Moon in Cancer will empower you to elevate your life by exploring new paths of spirituality and approaches to life. Step out of the mundane, open your heart, and explore the unknown.

Carla Candace

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)

Wearing your heart on your sleeve isn't your kryptonite, Sagittarius. It is your strength and outlet in forming bonds with others. This week will extend an open window for you to deepen connections with those who genuinely care for your well-being. Venus sextile Juno will extend its support for you to name your terms with authority figures, and by truthfully expressing your needs, it will lead to promotional opportunities or knowing where you stand in your career. Build your case. Neptune retrograde marks the beginning of you retracing your family connections, reflecting on emotional wounds, and rebuilding your sense of self. The New Moon in Cancer will let you focus on your inner needs and root down your intentions moving forward.

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

Lost in translation lately, Capricorn? The good news is that this week, you will have the opportunity to clear the air or hash it out with those you are wondering about. Mercury in Leo will grant cosmic support to you to narrow down the details of what has been confusing you about intimacy or resources. Allow your intuition to be your guide. Neptune retrograde will allow you to slow down your mental processes and help you connect with receptive messages from the Universe. Anything that has been hovering in your imagination will be retrieved seamlessly. Start writing or begin an artistic endeavor to consolidate results. The New Moon in Cancer grants you the chance to turn over a new leaf in committed partnerships. Focus on harmony and integrate empathy in the course of your new chapter.

Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)

If only people can get inside your head and keep up with your brilliance, Aquarius. You will have to fly solo this week and keep doing you. Venus sextile Juno will power up your productivity and ability to strategize your long-term plans, financially or romantically. Take notes about your plans and share them with those you can trust later. Things are about to get interesting as Neptune retrograde will compel you to dial down your spending habits and break free from illusions such as materialism. Focus on the bigger picture and avoid divulging into frivolity. The New Moon in Cancer extends a new approach to your health and daily routines. Now is your chance to begin a wellness goal and rebalance your approach to life.

Pisces (February 19 - March 20)

Are you ready to take a chance on your heart, Pisces? This week is brimming with signs from the Universe that you have the green light to focus on your desires. As Venus sexiles Juno, your dreams become the source of your strength, and you hold the key to making it happen. It all begins in a single word or step. Neptune retrograde in your sign will enable you to be the channel of your life decisions while helping you face your fears involving who you are and your plans. The New Moon in Cancer initiates new beginnings in your creative endeavors or love story, hinting you to factor in your joy as the source behind your motivation. You have come so far in your journey, and remind yourself that you deserve all the happiness in the world and more. Believe.

Looking for your own astrology advice? Submit your questions for Ask Lumi here!

Header image by Madison Hoopman

If there’s one aspect of Harry Potter that has stuck with me all these years, it’s the snacks. Butterbeer! Pumpkin juice! The Hogwarts Express Trolley! Every time I watch any of my favorite Harry Potter movies, I can’t help but crave sweets. If you’re in the same boat (AKA you need a trip to The Three Broomsticks, like, yesterday), then you absolutely must check out Food Network’s new Harry Potter baking show. Not only is Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking being hosted by two of the movies' actors, but it's also being filmed at the studios you know and love. Whip up some Harry Potter cocktails and let's get baking!

What is the wizarding world cooking show?

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Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking is a baking competition show that's all about the Wizarding World. According to the official Instagram announcement, "pastry chefs will craft spellbinding sweet creations inspired by the @wizardingworld of @HarryPotter." We're in for endless chocolate frogs, polyjuice potions, and butterbeers.

The best part is that the series will be filmed at the Warner Bros. Studio in London (which, FYI, is where all the movies were filmed), which makes the show even more magical!

When is the Harry Potter baking show coming out?

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We know the show is coming later this year, but we don't have an official release date quite yet. Considering September 1 is Back to Hogwarts Day, the fall and the holidays are the perfect time for Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking to air!

Where can I watch Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking?

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Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking will premiere on Food Network, and it'll be available to stream on Max.

Who's hosting Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking?

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The new Harry Potter baking show will be hosted by James and Oliver Phelps, who played the Weasley twins in the movies! We're also in for some special guests, which I hope includes other members of the Harry Potter cast. Somebody get Bonnie Wright, Emma Watson, and Tom Felton on the phone puh-lease.

What movie sets will be in the Harry Potter baking show?

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The official description says we'll see Hogwarts' Great Hall, Platform 9¾, Gringotts Wizarding Bank, and The Burrow, among other sets, props, and costumes.

Which Harry Potter recipe do you hope to see onscreen? Let us know in the comments and check out 23 Harry Potter-Inspired Treat Recipes to Get You Pumped for the Yule Ball.

Lead image via Warner Bros Entertainment