British actor Paapa Essiedu has reportedly been cast as Severus Snape in the upcoming Harry Potter TV series, sparking intense debates among fans. While some have applauded the decision to cast the “Gangster of London” star, others express concerns about potential racist backlash and question the series’ commitment to staying true to J.K. Rowling’s book.
Originally portrayed by Alan Rickman, Snape is regarded as one of the most complex and cherished characters in the Harry Potter universe. Critics of the casting have pointed out that descriptions of Snape in the book—pale skin, greasy dark hair, and a prominent nose—are not aligned with Essiedu’s appearance.
Some fans propose Adam Driver as a more suitable choice, noting his physical resemblance to Rickman’s portrayal, including long hair, a deep voice, and a knack for playing intense, brooding characters. Supporters of Driver argue that he more accurately reflects the book’s description and has a proven history in dark dramatic roles.
Reactions on social media are mixed. Some fans have voiced disappointment, claiming the casting strays too far from the source material, with one user commenting, “They haven’t even started filming and already they’re deviating from the book. I’m personally let down.” Others insist that Alan Rickman’s interpretation was unmatched, with one declaring, “This is the only Snape I recognize! Paapa Essiedu can’t compare to Alan Rickman.”
There are also concerns that Essiedu may face unwarranted criticism similar to past controversies over diverse casting choices in productions like the cursed children’s play on Broadway and Amazon’s “The Wheel of Time.” Critics have accused Hollywood of enforcing diversity, stating, “Paapa Essiedu is an incredibly talented actor; why is diversity being forced on everything?”
Conversely, many are defending Essiedu’s casting, emphasizing his acting skills over physical likeness. Some deem the backlash “unnecessary,” asserting that an actor’s ability to embody a role shouldn’t be limited by their race. The Harry Potter series is set to premiere in 2027, having been delayed from its original 2026 release date.
