Casting speculation mounts: Paapa Essiedu eyed for snape role
The "Harry Potter" series from MAX is slated to premiere in 2026. Fans have mixed feelings; some are thrilled about the expansion of their favourite universe, while others feel the production is unnecessary. The first rumours have just surfaced regarding the actor set to portray the potions master.
The Harry Potter franchise is currently a goldmine not only for content but also financially. Books in new editions, films, games, LEGO sets, gadgets, clothes, mugs, and sweets—there's plenty on offer for fans of the magical saga. It’s no wonder major studios are capitalising on this demand: to indulge the nostalgia of longtime viewers, and to nurture a new generation of "Harry Potter" enthusiasts.
The "Fantastic Beasts" film series was not as much of a hit as expected, but the MAX series has the opportunity to compensate by taking us back into the heart of the magical universe. Although the showrunners had a wealth of source material to explore, such as the formation of the Order of the Phoenix, the times of the First Wizarding War, or the school years of the Marauders, they opted to build upon the films' storylines for a fuller adaptation of the books. Each book will receive its own season, allowing for the introduction of new characters and previously omitted subplots. And there were certainly quite a few of those.
The cast of the "Harry Potter" series is not yet known, but there are rumours that Paapa Essiedu is a potential contender for the role of Severus Snape, previously played by Alan Rickman in the films.
Paapa Essiedu as the potions master in the "Harry Potter" series?
Paapa Essiedu is an actor, known for "I May Destroy You". "The Hollywood Reporter" states that he has been offered the role, although official negotiations have yet to begin. In the book, Severus Snape is depicted as a tall man with greasy black hair, a hooked nose, and sallow skin. The top choice for fans to play the potions teacher would undoubtedly be Adam Driver; for a younger version, Ezra Miller was frequently suggested (prior to their problematic era).
Currently, MAX is searching for children to play Harry, Ron, and Hermione, but the stage of the casting process remains unknown. Various sources also indicate that Mark Rylance ("Dunkirk", "The Trial of the Chicago 7", "Bridge of Spies") is set to be cast as Dumbledore. For now, it's evident that the producers are adhering to J.K. Rowling’s original guidelines, primarily considering British actors for the roles.
