HBO is reportedly interested in casting Paapa Essiedu, known for his role in I May Destroy You, as Severus Snape in the new Harry Potter TV series, according to Deadline. However, no formal offers have been made, and Essiedu’s team has not started discussions with HBO about the role.
Legacy of Severus Snape
In the original films, Alan Rickman portrayed Snape as a cold but complex character. In the upcoming series, Snape is expected to play the role of an antagonist. Casting rumors also suggest that both Mark Strong and Mark Rylance are being considered for Albus Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts.
HBO Responds to Casting Speculation
An HBO spokesperson commented on the rumors, saying, “We understand that a high-profile series like this generates a lot of speculation. We will confirm casting details only when deals are finalized.”
HBO aims to prioritize diversity in casting for this series, taking inspiration from the stage production Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which has featured diverse actors in key roles, including Hermione Granger.
Who Is Paapa Essiedu?
Essiedu is an Emmy and BAFTA-nominated actor who recently joined WME for representation. He gained critical acclaim for his role as Kwame in I May Destroy You, earning Emmy and BAFTA nominations. He also received a BAFTA nomination for his leading role in The Lazarus Project.
Essiedu’s recent projects include:
- A leading role in the National Theatre’s The Effect, moving to The Shed in New York.
- A notable performance in Season 6 of Black Mirror, in the episode “Demon 79.”
- A role in the Christmas movie The Genie, directed by Sam Boyd and written by Richard Curtis.
- A leading role with Saoirse Ronan in The Outrun.
About The Harry Potter Series
The Harry Potter TV series is written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner. Mark Mylod, known for his work on Succession, will direct several episodes and serve as an executive producer. The series involves a partnership between HBO, Brontë Film and TV, and Warner Bros. Television.
The key people involved include:
- J.K. Rowling, author of the original Harry Potter series.
- Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts from Brontë Film and TV.
- David Heyman, the producer of the original film franchise, through Heyday Films.
Gardiner was selected as showrunner in June after a thorough selection process with Rowling’s input. She is now setting up her writers’ room, which includes several notable talents
- Laura Neal (Killing Eve).
- Andy Greenwald, creator of Briarpatch.
- Josephine Gardiner, Francesca’s sister.
The series is set to release in 2026 and aims to reimagine the beloved wizarding world for a new generation.
