Harry potter star paapa essiedu opens up about racist abuse after being cast as severus snape

Harry Potter actor Paapa Essiedu has spoken out about the racist abuse he's faced since being cast as Severus Snape in the upcoming HBO series.

Essiedu faced intense backlash over his casting as snape

Essiedu, who is of English and Ghanaian descent, was announced as the new Snape in April 2025. The news sparked heated debate, with some fans expressing disappointment at the character's new race.

In an interview with The Times, Essiedu detailed the racist abuse he's endured, including death threats and messages telling him to quit the role or face violence.