Paapa Essiedu to play Severus Snape in ‘Harry Potter’ television series
HBO are considering British actor Paapa Essiedu for the role of Professor Severus Snape in their new television adaptation of Harry Potter.
The new series was announced in the spring of 2023, and the first season will focus on the story of the first book in the series, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, released in 1997. Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod will executive produce the series, having previously worked together on HBO’s critically acclaimed drama Succession.
The late Alan Rickman played Severus Snape, Hogwarts’ stoic potion teacher, in the original movies. He quickly became one of the most divisive characters in the franchise, doubling as a villain and protector to Harry. Now, Essiedu is apparently set to take on the complex role, though his involvement in the series has not yet been officially confirmed.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, sources have shared that Essiedu has received an offer for the role, though he has yet to officially accept it. Essiedu has starred in a number of acclaimed series and movies over the last few years, including Michaela Coel’s I May Destroy You and Alex Garland’s Men.
Essiedu isn’t the only actor who is rumoured to star in the series. HBO have reportedly been eyeing Mark Rylance for the role of Hogwarts headmaster, Professor Dumbledore. Rylance is well-known for his work across Shakespeare productions and Hollywood.
When is the new Harry Potter series expected to arrive on our screens?
The new Harry Potter series is still fairly early in development, with casting for the main roles still ongoing. Although HBO initially aimed to premiere the show in 2026, it seems that fans may have to wait a little longer to be reunited with their favourite characters.
JB Perrette, the CEO and President of Global Streaming and Games for Warner Bros Discovery, spoke about the timeline for the series during a Wells Fargo conference. During his appearance, he suggested that the Harry Potter series will likely arrive in 2027.
“As you look at ’26 and into ’27, you begin a 10-year journey on the Harry Potter series, which we’re super excited about,” he stated, via Variety, “And I’d argue, may be the biggest event by the time we get to that series.”
The show seems set to dedicate a season to each book in the series, meaning there will likely be seven seasons in total.
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