Paapa Essiedu spoke about the public’s response to him being cast in the new Harry Potter TV show. He talked about playing Severus Snape and the excitement around the series.
Paapa Essiedu on controversy surrounding his casting in Harry Potter TV show
Paapa Essiedu, who has been cast as Severus Snape in the new Harry Potter TV series, has received racist abuse and death threats. He shared with The Sunday Times that people have threatened to murder him if he doesn’t leave the role, and that he’s seen threats on Instagram of violence at his home. Essiedu emphasized that no one should face such harassment simply for doing their job.
Essiedu admitted the abuse had been upsetting, stating, “It would be dishonest to say it hasn’t affected me.” He also said that while he hopes to be alright, no one deserves to experience such threats. He explained that the negative reaction began after he was cast in a role Alan Rickman famously played.
Essiedu shared that the public reaction has actually inspired him in how he plays the role. He explained, ‘The negativity pushes me to work harder,’ and that it’s made him even more determined to create a unique portrayal of the character. He also emphasized the importance of representation, saying he hopes young people who look like him can see themselves reflected in the story.
The actor shared that he was a big reader growing up. He explained that his mother often took him to the library during school breaks because they couldn’t afford a babysitter, and he was a huge fan of the ‘Harry Potter’ books. Although he hasn’t seen the movies, he described the books as a welcome escape when he was facing difficult times.
The show will return in 2027 with a fresh cast, featuring Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton, and Alastair Stout. Lekan Essiedu has committed to the series for ten years, noting it was a significant undertaking and that he’ll be 45 years old when his contract ends.
Originally reported by Vritti Johar on SuperHeroHype.
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2026-03-23 18:49