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Harry Potter trolls are not thrilled with the casting of Severus Snape which they call ‘woke’

BBG News

As a lifelong fan of the magical world that J.K. Rowling created, I must say I am both excited and apprehensive about the upcoming reboot of Harry Potter. Having grown up with these books, they hold a special place in my heart and have been a significant part of my life journey.

Fans of Harry Potter have criticized a recent casting rumor for a well-known character in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter series, labeling it as “progressive” or “forward-thinking.

As a devoted fan excitedly sharing news, I can tell you that the talented British actor, Paapa Essiedu, aged 34, is said to have received an offer for the role of Severus Snape in the upcoming reboot – according to recent reports from The Hollywood Reporter on Wednesday.

However, it is ‘not clear if negotiations have begun in earnest.’ 

In the Harry Potter movie series produced by Warner Bros., spanning from 2001 to 2011, Alan Rickman became renowned for his portrayal of the character who taught potions.

After learning that Essiedu might play Snape, some people expressed their opinions about X (previously known as Twitter).

In my fervent enthusiasm, I feel compelled to express my sentiments: “No other individual could possibly embody the role of Professor Snape as magnificently as the original actor did. It’s a pity, HBO, for meddling with such hallowed ground. I fear this misguided attempt will only tarnish something that was left untouched and perfect.

The text says, ‘It was written that Paapa Essiedu might not be suitable for this role, considering it wouldn’t be advantageous to him. Despite being potentially the greatest actor globally, his character traits do not align with those of Snape as depicted in the book.’

‘I don’t understand the push to change everything from the original context,’ they added. 

It has been reported that Paapa Essiedu is being considered for the role of Professor Severus Snape in the forthcoming “Harry Potter” television series. Another piece, meanwhile, takes on a more modern approach.

One user stated, ‘I’m sorry, but Paapa Essiedu isn’t able to be Severus Snape,’ while another shared, ‘Absolutely! When I picture Severus Snape from the books, Paapa Essiedu is the person who fits the description perfectly.’

In my perspective, when I read, “‘Greasy, shoulder-length black hair, a hooked nose, and sallow skin.'” I can’t help but wonder if this description resembles Paapa Essiedu. It seems to me that such descriptions could apply to many individuals of color as well.

One questioned, ‘So Paapa Essiedu is the new Severus Snape in Harry Potter series. Why?’ 

‘Paapa Essiedu is fantastic in his own right, but he simply doesn’t match the extraordinary portrayal of Severus Snape by Alan Rickman. I must admit, it’s not possible for anyone else to fill those shoes.’

I initially read ‘Harry Potter’ books during my teenage years, and they will forever hold a special significance for me. Regardless of anyone labeling me as racist, Paapa Essiedu is not who I envision as Severus Snape. Kudos to HBO, you’ve become the new Disney. I’m done here.

In spite of some opposition, others spoke up in support of the Black Mirror actor. A supporter wrote, ‘Perhaps it doesn’t cross Harry Potter fans’ minds that Paapa Essiedu was just the perfect fit for the role?’

A user mentioned that Paapa Essiedu is an exceptional actor, and it would have been captivating to see him in another production. However, this specific show seems to be doomed since its inception.

One wrote, ‘I love Paapa Essiedu.. Saw him in The Effect at the London National Theater a year ago and he’s too good!!’ 

The actor is known for his roles in projects such as The Lazarus Project and also Gangs Of London. 

As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Paapa has been proposed for the role of Snape; however, it’s uncertain if formal discussions regarding this offer have started yet.

In the premiere season of the fresh TV series, the storyline will be based on J.K. Rowling’s initial work, “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” in which a teacher emerges as one of the main villains.

As of now, it appears that no actors have been formally contracted for the movie franchise. However, there are several candidates who are being looked at by the producers.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but express my excitement about the casting of Essiedu in this highly anticipated series. However, I understand that with such a prominent production, there will undoubtedly be a surge of gossip and conjecture.

‘As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals.’

Initially, Paapa made his debut on stage with the Royal Shakespeare Company. However, it was his role in the HBO miniseries “I May Destroy You” that marked a significant television milestone for him.

He earned nominations for a British Academy Television Award and a Primetime Emmy Award for his performance, before earning starring roles in Gangs Of London and The Lazarus Project.

More recently, the well-known actor starred in the fifth episode of Black Mirror’s sixth season, titled Demon 79.

The hunt for the next Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger officially began in September, with casting directors preparing to comb through the UK in search of actors to portray the magical trio for an HBO remake. However, some enthusiasts are worried that it may have already been ‘tainted.’

A public invitation for auditions has been shared for an upcoming television series, providing specifics such as seeking kids aged nine to eleven by April 2025, who are either British or Irish citizens.

The casting call read: ‘We are committed to inclusive, diverse casting.

‘For every role, please submit qualified performers, without regard to ethnicity, sex, disability, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by law unless otherwise specifically indicated.’

Due to the lack of detailed descriptions about the desired appearance of the actors in the new HBO series, fans find themselves debating if this adaptation will stray too far from the established franchise.

Meanwhile, others want the beloved film series to be ‘left alone’ and don’t want a remake at all.

In June, J.K. Rowling shared details on what fans might anticipate from the forthcoming remake as she disclosed that a producer and director had been secured for the project.

It’s announced that Francesca Gardiner, famed for her work on Succession and Killing Eve, is set to take charge as the series creator, executive producer, and scriptwriter for the upcoming TV show.

Mark Mylod will take charge of multiple episodes, and he’s renowned for contributing to other ventures like The Last of Us, Succession, and The Menu.

In X, Rowling expressed her excitement by saying, ‘I’m delighted to reveal that our director and scriptwriter are on board. I had the pleasure of interviewing them as part of the production process.’

‘They both share a sincere love for Harry Potter, and after reviewing Francesca’s initial script and listening to Mark’s ideas, I am convinced that this TV series is going to exceed our expectations.’

The author is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming reboot, as it’s scheduled to start filming in the spring of 2025.

Following criticism, HBO stood up for Rowling by stating in a release: ‘We’re thrilled to share the tale of Harry Potter once more – the captivating novels that highlight the importance of camaraderie, determination, and tolerance. JK Rowling is entitled to express her individual opinions.’

‘We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.’

Though the specific launch date remains unspecified, the production team is planning to air the show some time during 2026.

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2024-12-05 20:34

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