British actor Paapa Essiedu is reportedly in talks to take on the role of Professor Severus Snape in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV series. Multiple sources told Variety that the I May Destroy You actor is a contender for Snape’s role, though no deals have yet been finalized. The Hollywood Reporter also cited sources familiar with the matter who disclosed that Essiedu has been offered the role—but that it is unclear if negotiations have begun. Representatives for HBO told Variety and THR that while they “appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation,” as the show goes through pre-production they will “only confirm details as we finalize deals.” In the original Harry Potter films, Alan Rickman assumed the role of the snarky potions teacher. While Essiedu boasts an impressive filmography, some people haven’t taken kindly to the news of his potential casting. A number of social media users bristled at the news due to the fact that Essiedu is Black, with a number spewing hate on X, formerly Twitter. One user called the decision “woke magic dust” and said producers might as well make Snape a “black lesbian woman.” Others have jumped to Essiedu’s defense, however, with one user tweeting, “Here come the racists. This is a fictional character, it’ll be ok.”
