Drama Version of "Harry Potter" Snape Reveals He Received Death Threats Over Casting, Still Says "Slander Can Be Motivating"

Actor Parpa Essiedu, who was cast as Professor Severus Snape of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the drama version of "Harry Potter," has spoken about the racist slurs he has been subjected to since the casting announcement. He spoke about the damage done. In April 2025, it was announced that Essiedou, a Ghanaian-Englishman, would play the pivotal role of Snape. Snape was the character played by Alan Rickman in the film series, and the announcement sparked a great deal of controversy surrounding the casting. In an interview with The Times, Essidoux referred to the racist aspect of the backlash, revealing that he was told to "drop out, or I'll kill you. "The reality is, if you open Instagram, you see people saying, 'I'm going to go to your house and kill you,'" Essidoux said. I hope I'm okay, but no one should have to go through this just because I'm working. A lot of people put their lives in danger because of their work. I just play a wizard in 'Harry Potter. And I'd be lying if I said I haven't been affected mentally. "It makes me more passionate about making this character my own. It reminds me of how I felt as a child. I imagined myself riding a broomstick at Hogwarts. And what if a child like myself could find himself in that world? It motivates me to play a role that I can be truly proud of, without flinching from those who say I should die." While there has been some slander, Essidoux said he has also received support. Last year, Jason Isaacs, who played Lucius Malfoy in the film series, condemned the "disrespectful" and "racist" criticism of Essidou, calling him "one of the best actors I've seen in my life." Isaacs added, "If they saw [Essidou's performance] on screen, they would surely retract their tongues. Well, a digital tongue," he said. Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts...