According to Deadline, the cast of Shaun of the Dead is nearing an official agreement to portray gamekeepers. John Lithgow has been confirmed for the role of Albus Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts. Lithgow shared on the Smartres Podcast that he was taken aback by how many people approached him following the announcement of his casting. “Can you believe this has already started?” he remarked. “This deal was finalized just 48 hours ago, and even two weeks back at the airport, people were already talking about it and stopping me.”
Additionally, Deadline reports that Janet McTeer is in talks to portray Professor Minerva McGonagall, who teaches transformation. There are also reports that actor Paapa Essiedu has been cast as Severus Snape, a decision that has sparked controversy. Many fans expressed concerns that he does not resemble the book’s character description. One commenter pointed out, “‘Greasy, shoulder-length dark hair, hooked nose, and sallow skin.’ Does that sound like Paapa Essiedu to you?”
Others worry that this casting choice could alter the dynamics of Snape’s relationships, particularly the tension between Snape and Harry’s father, James Potter. Some fans raised alarms that bullying scenes featuring a young Black Snape might convey unintended racist implications, altering the story’s purpose.
Nonetheless, there are those who are enthusiastic about Essiedu taking on the role. “Maybe it doesn’t occur to Harry Potter fans that Paapa Essiedu is just the right person for this role?” one fan queried. Another stated, “Paapa Essiedu is a fantastic actor, and in the right context, this could be an intriguing and inspired choice. Unfortunately, this series seems to be cursed from the start.” HBO previously commented on the situation, acknowledging that the well-known series sparks much speculation: “During pre-production, we only verify details once the deal is finalized.”
