HBO's New Snape Actor Responds to Casting Backlash

Paapa Essiedu has publicly responded to fan criticism over his casting as Severus Snape in HBO's upcoming Harry Potter series. According to a report from ScreenRant, Essiedu addressed the backlash in an interview with TIME.

Essiedu stated his primary focus is on the work. He told the outlet he is concentrating on bringing humanity and complexity to the layered character, calling it a privilege and an honor. He also expressed his eagerness to continue in the role for the foreseeable future.

The series will debut with an adaptation of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, where Snape is introduced as a seemingly villainous potions professor. HBO intends to produce a full season for each of the seven original books, and production on the second season is reportedly already underway.

HBO's Harry Potter adaptation is scheduled to premiere on HBO Max on December 25.