Star Casting Controversy
Paapa Essiedu, a British actor of Ghanaian descent, will take on the role of Professor Severus Snape in the upcoming Harry Potter television series produced by HBO.
Previously, the late actor Alan Rickman was closely associated with the role of the beloved Potions Master at Hogwarts throughout Warner Bros.’ film series from 2001 to 2011, leaving a deep imprint on the hearts of fans.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the new television series is set to begin filming in the summer of 2025, starting with an adaptation of the first book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, which was published in 1997.
Alongside Paapa Essiedu, the series will also feature several notable actors such as John Lithgow, a former Emmy Award winner, in the role of Headmaster Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Professor Minerva McGonagall, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid.
These actors are expected to make recurring appearances throughout the series. The three main roles of Harry, Ron, and Hermione have not yet been announced. HBO has indicated that in 2024, they will audition 32,000 children to play these characters, all of whom will be around 11 years old in the opening episode.
A Controversial Choice
As soon as the news broke that Paapa Essiedu was cast as Snape, the fan community erupted in heated debate. Many comments criticized HBO, arguing that the actor does not fit the physical description of the character in the book – “pale skin, greasy hair, and cold, dark eyes.”
Some individuals have even called the casting decision overly politically correct. On social media platform X, one viewer wrote: “Sorry, but it should only be a person who could be Snape – HBO shouldn’t compromise on this legacy,” while another account stated: “Even if Essiedu is an outstanding actor, he doesn’t fit the image of Snape.”
Despite the criticism, many have voiced their support for the British actor, known for his standout performances in Black Mirror. “Could Harry Potter fans not think that Paapa Essiedu is simply the most suitable person for this role?” Another fan stated: “He is an exceptional actor, and in another context, this could be an inspiring casting choice,” sparking discussions among viewers.
Paapa Essiedu began his career at the Royal Shakespeare Company and gained recognition through HBO’s series I May Destroy You, for which he received BAFTA and Emmy nominations. Most recently, he appeared in the sixth season of Black Mirror, in the episode Demon 79.
The casting process has committed to “diverse and inclusive casting,” not distinguishing based on ethnicity, gender, or any other criteria according to the guidelines. This has raised concerns among fans that the series may drift away from the original principles.
Producer’s Response
In response to the backlash, director and producer Mark Mylod stated: “No one can replace Alan Rickman, but we can find a new Alan Rickman.”
Screenwriter Francesca Gardiner added, “We are thrilled to have such outstanding actors contribute. It will bring a fresh portrayal to the beloved characters that millions of fans adore.”
J.K. Rowling previously voiced her support for Noma Dumezweni, a Black actress who portrayed Hermione Granger in the play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the West End in 2016.
When faced with criticism, Rowling responded: “It’s just to differentiate based on ethnicity. I predicted that there would be some backlash. But Noma was chosen because she was the most suitable actress for this role. Hermione could very well be a Black woman – with the right attitude from me.”
HBO plans to adapt the entire series of Harry Potter into a television series, with many significant changes compared to the film adaptations.
