Paapa Essiedu Details Death Threats Since Harry Potter Casting

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Paapa Essiedu is opening up about a troubling reality.

The stage actor known for performing Shakespeare—recently cast as Severus Snape in the new Harry Potter TV series (a role previously held by Alan Rickman)—has spoken about the racist abuse he’s received since joining the HBO show.

He explained to The Times of London in a March 21st interview that the threats he receives are a serious concern. He said that when he checks Instagram, he often finds messages threatening his life, like people saying they’ll come to his home and kill him. He jokingly added that while he doesn’t expect to be murdered, he hopes he won’t be proven wrong!

He acknowledged that while he hopes to be alright, no one should face this kind of negativity simply for doing their job. He pointed out that many professions involve real risk, and he’s just playing a wizard in Harry Potter. He admitted the online criticism has been emotionally difficult for him.

Although the comments are painful, Paapa pointed out that disconnecting from the internet isn’t a realistic way to avoid them.

Just because you try to avoid acknowledging something doesn’t make it disappear,” he said. “The problem is still widespread, and people are noticing and reaching out to check on me anyway.

The actor acknowledged the negative reaction to his casting, which he found disturbing, but shared that he hasn’t filed a report about the death threats he’s received. He explained that he doesn’t believe punishing a teenager with a short jail sentence would offer him any real comfort or improve the situation.

The 35-year-old actor, who joined the show’s cast in April 2025 with stars like John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, and Nick Frost, plans to learn from what people think and use that to help him grow in his career.

He said facing negativity actually motivates him and deepens his connection to the character. It reminds him of his own childhood experiences, making him even more determined to bring the character to life in a way that feels personal.

He often pictured himself at Hogwarts, flying on a broomstick, and found it incredibly empowering to see someone like him represented in that magical world. This vision fuels his determination to not let hateful comments – like someone wishing he’d just give up and die instead of pursuing his creative work – discourage him from creating things he’ll be truly proud of.

Paapa is thrilled about this incredible opportunity, and it’s worth leaving any negativity behind.

He acknowledged it’s a significant undertaking. He’ll be 45 when it’s done and expects his life to change dramatically, but he’s accepting of that. He also realized he might have children before it’s all over.

While we wait to find out when the Harry Potter series will premiere, here’s a look at some other exciting TV shows coming soon.

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2026-03-22 23:28