Harry Potter film star Jason Isaacs has condemned "offensive" criticism of Black actor Paapa Essiedu’s casting as Severus Snape in HBO’s forthcoming Harry Potter TV series.
Essiedu, known for roles in Black Mirror and HBO’s I May Destroy You, was announced as Snape in April, succeeding the late Alan Rickman, who portrayed the character in the original films.
Isaacs, who portrayed Lucius Malfoy in the Harry Potter films, recently addressed the backlash against Essiedu’s casting, praising the actor and denouncing detractors’ remarks as rooted in prejudice.
“Paapa Essiedu is among the finest actors I’ve ever witnessed,” Isaacs stated at FanExpo Denver, according to Collider. “Some online comments about him are simply prejudiced.
“The entire cast of the new Harry Potter series is exceptional. Critics will be speechless when they see Paapa’s performance on screen.”
Snape is a central character in the Harry Potter saga, with his true intentions shrouded in mystery for much of the story. His complex backstory, including ties to Harry’s parents and his stance toward Voldemort, unfolds in later books and films.
Criticism of Essiedu’s casting has included claims that his appearance deviates from the book’s description of Snape—echoing objections raised against the Black casting of Hermione in the successful Harry Potter and the Cursed Child play. Some argue that Snape’s race alters the dynamics of his narrative, particularly his childhood bullying by Harry’s father and peers and his unspoken love for Harry’s mother.
While some view the casting as a significant shift, others believe it will highlight key aspects of Snape’s story, enhancing the overall narrative.
“The series is crafted by the same team behind the films, and they’re dedicating a full season to each book,” Isaacs noted. “It’s going to be phenomenal.”
The series’ initial casting revealed John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, followed by announcements of Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell, Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch, and Katherine Parkinson as Molly Weasley.
Filming for the Harry Potter TV series is slated to start this year, with a premiere on HBO expected in late 2026 or early 2027.
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