David Yates directed more installments of the "Harry Potter" franchise than anyone else. Chris Columbus directed two, and Alfonso Cuaron and Mike Newell directed one each. Yates directed the final four films, constituting a full half of Harry Potter's on-screen adventures.

Warner Bros. announced in September 2013 that its was teaming up with J.K. Rowling to produce a new trilogy of films set in the Potterverse. "Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them" will be based on Rowling's own ancillary textbook, which was written in-universe by a "magizoologist" named Newt Scamander, and catalogs the many magical creatures of Rowling's wizard world. It's a spin-off off the Potter films, set decades before that character was born, and starring an entirely new cast of characters. Rowling herself is writing the screenplay.

Variety has broken the exclusive news that Warner Bros. is negotiating to hire Yates to direct "Fantastic Beasts." Yates is expected to direct the first film in the trilogy, though he could conceivably sign on to direct all three. Given his familiarity with Rowling's universe and his strong standing at Warner Bros., this seems like a bit of a no-brainer. But fans should be relieved to know that pending negotiations, the Potterverse is in good hands.

Aside from Rowling's screenplay and Yates' potential directing gig, no other talent has been approached about the films. Should Yates be hired, acting announcements likely will not be far behind.

Since the end of the "Harry Potter" films, Yates directed the pilot episode of FX's "Tyrant," and is currently filming a new take on "Tarzan," starring Alexander Skarsgard.

Photo: Joella Marano