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Paapa Essiedu opens up about death threats after joining new 'Harry Potter' series
The British actor is set to portray Severus Snape in the upcoming HBO Max adaptation of the 'Harry Potter' series
- PUBLISHED: Sun 22 Mar 2026, 1:03 PM
- By:
- ANI
British actor Paapa Essiedu, set to portray Severus Snape in the upcoming HBO Max adaptation of the Harry Potter series, has revealed that he has received racist death threats following his casting.
In a recent interview to Deadline, the Olivier-nominated actor, best known for his work in I May Destroy You, said, "I've been told, 'Quit or I'll murder you,'" recalling the targeted vitriol he has encountered since joining the high-profile project.
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The actor will take over the role from the late Alan Rickman and is expected to remain with the series for a decade, according to Warner Bros. Television's plans for the serialized adaptation.
"Yes, this is a big commitment," Essiedu said, adding, "I'll be 45 by the time I finish and I know my life is going to change in a big way, but I have to just surrender to that. I could have children by the end of this."
Having grown up reading JK Rowling's fantasy novels, Essiedu described the books as a source of escapism.
Now, he said, the online harassment motivates him to bring authenticity and dedication to his portrayal of the morally complex potions master.
"The reality is that if I look at Instagram I will see somebody saying, 'I'm going to come to your house and kill you,'" he said, adding, "Many people put their lives on the line in their work. I'm playing a wizard in Harry Potter. And I'd be lying if I said it doesn't affect me emotionally."
Despite the threats, he emphasised that the abuse fuels his passion for the role and the opportunity to inspire young viewers who see themselves reflected in the story.
The new Harry Potter series, which aims to explore themes of "love triumphing over hate, of acceptance," is scheduled to launch next year.