Currently, there is no confirmed agreement, and actor Paapa Essiedu has yet to officially accept the role he has been linked to in the upcoming series. He is the most recent name mentioned for a part in this highly anticipated adaptation. Earlier reports from Variety indicated that Academy Award winner Mark Rylance was also a contender for the role of Albus Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts.
In response to inquiries, HBO issued a statement acknowledging the inevitable rumors surrounding such a significant series. They indicated that as pre-production progresses, they will only disclose confirmed details once deals are finalized.
The character in question, Severus Snape, serves as the potions master at Hogwarts and head of Slytherin House. His relationship with Harry Potter is fraught with tension, primarily due to Snape's past with Harry’s father, who bullied him during their time as students. Additionally, Snape's unreciprocated affection for Harry's mother, Lily, further complicates his character. The character has been famously portrayed by the late Alan Rickman in the original "Harry Potter" films.
Should Essiedu agree to take on this role, it would signify his return to HBO, where he previously starred in the acclaimed limited series "I May Destroy You," earning an Emmy nomination for his performance. Essiedu is also recognized for his roles in "Gangs of London," "Press," "The Lazarus Project," and "The Miniaturist," along with appearances in films like "Murder on the Orient Express."
The leading roles of Harry, Hermione, and Ron are expected to be filled by newcomers, as Warner Bros. recently initiated an open casting call for children aged 9 to 11.
The new series aims to be a faithful retelling of J.K. Rowling's beloved "Harry Potter" books, featuring a fresh cast to engage a new generation of fans while maintaining the essence of the cherished characters and stories. Each season will introduce these iconic adventures to a global audience, complementing the existing films that remain integral to the franchise.
Francesca Gardiner was appointed as showrunner and executive producer in June, with Mark Mylod directing several episodes. The series is produced by Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts, and David Heyman. The Hollywood Reporter was the first to report Essiedu’s potential involvement as Snape.
