A new star may be rising in the Wizarding World. Industry insiders report that British actor Paapa Essiedu is in talks to portray the iconic character of Severus Snape in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter television series.
Known for his roles in acclaimed series like I May Destroy You and films such as Murder on the Orient Express, Essiedu is reportedly being considered for the complex and morally ambiguous Snape, a role previously immortalized by the late Alan Rickman.
The series, based on J.K. Rowling’s beloved novels, is set to debut in 2026 and will follow the adventures of young wizard Harry Potter and his friends. While plot details remain under wraps, it’s expected to faithfully adapt the source material, introducing a new generation to the magical world of Hogwarts.
Other notable casting rumors have circulated, with Mark Rylance reportedly close to securing the role of Albus Dumbledore. However, reports of Cillian Murphy joining the cast as Lord Voldemort have been dismissed.
HBO has confirmed that the series will feature a diverse cast, a departure from the predominantly white ensemble of the film adaptations. Essiedu’s potential casting aligns with this commitment to inclusivity, offering a fresh perspective on the beloved character.
In response to the casting rumors, HBO stated, “We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals.”
The series is being written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner, with Mark Mylod set to direct multiple episodes. J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts, and David Heyman are also attached as executive producers.
