HBO has been forced to deploy a massive security detail to the set of its upcoming Harry Potter series following a wave of violent death threats directed at the new Severus Snape, Paapa Essiedu.
The 35 year old British actor, known for his standout role in I May Destroy You, revealed that his social media has been flooded with racist abuse and chilling messages including "Quit or I'll murder you."
The backlash intensified after the March 25 release of the first official teaser for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, which confirmed Essiedu would take over the iconic role famously played by the late Alan Rickman.
HBO CEO Casey Bloys admitted that the network anticipated a strong reaction from "passionate" fans and took proactive steps to protect the cast, including specialized social media training and a high-level physical security team.
"With all actors on any kind of big IP shows, it can get scary in places," Bloys told Variety, confirming that the network is providing extra protection to ensure the safety of the entire production.
Essiedu, who is of Ghanaian-English descent, stated that while the threats have been emotionally challenging, they have also fueled his passion to make the character his own for the new generation.
The new series, which features an entirely fresh cast including Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter and Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, is officially set to premiere on HBO Max in December 2026.
Despite the controversy, the production is moving forward with a ten-year plan that will dedicate one full season to each of J.K. Rowling’s seven original books.
Other major cast members joining Essiedu include John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid.
As filming continues under tight guard, the studio is standing firm behind its casting choices, emphasizing that the themes of the Wizarding World are rooted in acceptance and love triumphing over hate.
The "serious security" measures remain in place as the cast prepares for what is expected to be one of the most-watched television events in history.