# Paapa Essiedu Harry Potter casting controversy

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/paapa-essiedu-harry-potter-casting-controversy
> Updated: 2026-10-31T18:00:00.000Z. Sources: 15. Developments: 2.

Actor Paapa Essiedu has addressed the backlash following his casting as Severus Snape in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter television series. The controversy involves the decision to cast a Black actor in a role traditionally depicted as pale, as well as Essiedu’s specific visual portrayal, which includes shoulder-length dreadlocks and a leather jacket.

Essiedu reported receiving racial abuse and death threats due to the casting. Speaking at the TIME100 Next Gala, he stated he approached the project with “open eyes” and would not have accepted the role if he could not handle the intense scrutiny. He emphasized that the production is not attempting to recreate previous portrayals and noted that his priority remains the work and providing representation for children who share his background.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-31: Paapa Essiedu addresses casting controversy for Harry Potter role

Actor Paapa Essiedu addressed the controversy surrounding his casting as Severus Snape in the Harry Potter series, stating his focus remains on the work despite facing significant backlash.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/paapa-essiedu-addresses-casting-controversy-for-harry-potter-role

### 2026-10-29: Paapa Essiedu addresses backlash over Harry Potter casting

Paapa Essiedu has addressed racial backlash and death threats regarding his casting as Severus Snape in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series, stating his focus remains on the work.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/paapa-essiedu-addresses-backlash-over-harry-potter-casting

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Cite as: Paapa Essiedu Harry Potter casting controversy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/paapa-essiedu-harry-potter-casting-controversy