HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV series is steadily progressing through its casting phase, with The Hollywood Reporter indicating a potential actor, Paapa Essiedu, for the role of Severus Snape. Essiedu, known for his Emmy-nominated performance in HBO’s I May Destroy You, has reportedly been offered the iconic role. However, it remains unclear whether negotiations have begun.
The new series will adapt J.K. Rowling’s esteemed fantasy saga book-by-book across each season. This ambitious project was first announced by Warner Bros. in April 2023, exciting fans with the promise of a faithful retelling of the Harry Potter story. The series aims to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved universe, with each of the seven books getting a dedicated season on HBO.
Essiedu, a British actor of Ghanaian descent, brings a rich background in theatre to the table, having starred in significant productions at the Royal Shakespeare Company, including King Lear, Hamlet, and Romeo and Juliet. His television and film credits are equally impressive, featuring roles in Gangs of London, Black Mirror, The Lazarus Project, and notable films such as Murder on the Orient Express and Men. His involvement in the series signals HBO’s commitment to a diverse cast, which has been a focal point in the casting discussions.
In the role of Severus Snape, Essiedu would follow in the footsteps of the late Alan Rickman, who left an indelible mark on the character in the original film series. Snape, initially an antagonist, plays a pivotal role throughout the Harry Potter saga, especially in the story’s deeper narratives that unfold in later books.
While the casting for other key characters continues, Mark Rylance has been rumoured to be considered for the role of Albus Dumbledore, Hogwarts’ wise and powerful headmaster. HBO, however, maintains a cautious approach to official announcements, stating, “We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumour and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalise deals.”
The series’ writing team is led by Francesca Gardiner, with J.K. Rowling also heavily involved in the adaptation. If Essiedu does join the cast, his portrayal of Snape could offer a fresh take on one of Rowling’s most complex characters. Fans can anticipate a deeper dive into the nuances of Snape’s role, along with a broader commitment to diversity in this reimagined version of Harry Potter, expected to debut in 2026.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, and anime — you name it. When she’s not reading or being a dedicated cinephile, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of Sylus from Love and Deepspace.
Kevin Low
