Trending Now - Paapa Essiedu Receives Death Threats Over Snape Role

WHO:

Paapa Essiedu, actor in the upcoming HBO Max adaptation of Harry Potter, known for taking on the role of Professor Snape.

The Times U.K., publication where Essiedu shared his experiences.

WHAT:

Essiedu has faced a number of racist death threats since his casting as Snape.

He reported being told, “Quit or I’ll murder you.”

WHERE:

The threats are associated with Essiedu's role in the Harry Potter series, which is being adapted for HBO Max.

WHEN:

The interview where Essiedu discussed the threats was published in March 2026.

WHY:

The death threats are racially motivated, stemming from Essiedu's casting as a character traditionally portrayed by a white actor, Alan Rickman.

HOW:

Essiedu mentioned that the threats have been communicated through social media platforms, specifically Instagram.

(UPDATED March 22, 2026 03:51 UTC)

In a recent interview with The Times U.K., actor Paapa Essiedu, who is set to play Professor Snape in the upcoming HBO Max adaptation of Harry Potter, revealed that he has received a number of racist death threats since his casting. He shared that some of these threats have been alarming, with one message stating, “Quit or I’ll murder you.” Essiedu noted that these threats have primarily come through social media, particularly Instagram, and are rooted in the backlash over his portrayal of a character traditionally played by a white actor.