Rupert Grint and Afshan Azad reunite after 19 Years: A look back at their Yule Ball memories

Rupert Grint and Afshan Azad recently reunited, 19 years after their memorable Yule Ball scene in "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." Azad shared a photo on Instagram, highlighting how much they've changed over the years. She humorously noted that Grint still hadn't asked her to dance, even after nearly two decades.
In "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," Grint played Ron Weasley, who attended the Yule Ball with Padma Patil, played by Azad.Their date didn’t go well, as Padma eventually left Ron when he refused to dance. The movie was a huge success, making $896.8 million at the box office, and the series remains popular, inspiring a revival show.
Azad’s Instagram post featured a side-by-side comparison of their current selves and their characters from the movie. She reflected on how parenthood has changed them both. Despite their characters' awkward Yule Ball experience, Grint and Azad's reunion was filled with nostalgia and smiles.
This isn't the first major reunion for the "Harry Potter" cast. In 2022, many of the actors came together for the "Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts" special. Grint shared during the special that he found it difficult to separate himself from his character, Ron, after the series ended. He was 33 at the time of the special and just 22 when the final movie was released.
As the actors reach the age their characters would be in the epilogue of the series, there's potential for another reunion. If "The Cursed Child" is ever made into a movie, stars like Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Grint could reprise their roles. Grint has expressed interest in returning if the timing is right, but Radcliffe has indicated he prefers not to reprise his role, saying he’s happy to watch as a fan.
The upcoming "Harry Potter" TV show adds another layer to the franchise’s future. With Francesca Gardiner as the showrunner, the series is set to premiere in 2026. Casting for the new actors who will play Harry, Hermione, Ron, and their friends is expected to start soon. While the original stars might not return for cameos, their legacy continues to influence the new generation.
Radcliffe has suggested that producers want "a clean break," focusing on new actors and themes rather than relying on the original cast for cameos. This approach could help the new show establish its own identity and allow the younger actors to shine.
Despite the uncertainty around future reunions or cameos, moments like Grint and Azad's reunion remind fans of the lasting impact and enduring charm of the "Harry Potter" series.