Series / News
Controversial 'Harry Potter' Choice Gets Support From Former Potter Actor
In a powerful statement, Jason Isaacs defends the casting choice, emphasizing the need for respect towards actors and their talents.
Jason Isaacs, known for his role as Lucius Malfoy in the original Harry Potter films, has spoken out against the online criticism of the new HBO series. He was particularly upset by the negative reactions regarding the casting of Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape. During a panel at FanExpo Denver, moderated by Maggie Lovitt from Collider, Isaacs made it clear: he is done with the racist comments directed at the British actor.
"Paapa Essiedu is one of the best actors I have ever seen. I see people online behaving rudely towards him. What they really are is racist." With these powerful words, Isaacs stood up for Essiedu, who has received international acclaim for his previous work.
Isaacs also shared a funny moment about how he was entirely unaware of the casting, despite a connection in his own home. "My daughter's girlfriend works in the casting department of the series. She came over for dinner, but we didn't get a word out of her! Really unbelievable, what a waste of tuition money."
But who is Paapa Essiedu, actually? The British actor gained global recognition for his role in the HBO series I May Destroy You, for which he received an Emmy nomination. He has also appeared in Black Mirror, The Outrun, and Genie. Now it has been confirmed that he will take on the iconic role of Severus Snape, a character closely associated with the legendary Alan Rickman.
Although the details surrounding Snape's storyline in the new series remain under wraps, it is clear that his role will again be central. Isaacs is not only an advocate for the casting choice, but he is also enthusiastic about the entire project. "The new cast is fantastic. Hopefully, critics will swallow their digital tongues as soon as they see Paapa on screen."
According to HBO, the series will feature a completely new cast and appeal to a new generation of fans. Each episode will be packed with beloved characters and magical details that fans have cherished for over twenty-five years. Each season will cover one book, allowing for more depth in the storytelling.
Isaacs is not worried about passing the wand to a new generation. "The series is being made by the same people as the films. They are taking their time to adapt each book into a full season, and it’s going to be fantastic."
"Paapa Essiedu is one of the best actors I have ever seen. I see people online behaving rudely towards him. What they really are is racist." With these powerful words, Isaacs stood up for Essiedu, who has received international acclaim for his previous work.
A Casting Secret At The Table
Isaacs also shared a funny moment about how he was entirely unaware of the casting, despite a connection in his own home. "My daughter's girlfriend works in the casting department of the series. She came over for dinner, but we didn't get a word out of her! Really unbelievable, what a waste of tuition money."
But who is Paapa Essiedu, actually? The British actor gained global recognition for his role in the HBO series I May Destroy You, for which he received an Emmy nomination. He has also appeared in Black Mirror, The Outrun, and Genie. Now it has been confirmed that he will take on the iconic role of Severus Snape, a character closely associated with the legendary Alan Rickman.
A Central Role In A New Vision
Although the details surrounding Snape's storyline in the new series remain under wraps, it is clear that his role will again be central. Isaacs is not only an advocate for the casting choice, but he is also enthusiastic about the entire project. "The new cast is fantastic. Hopefully, critics will swallow their digital tongues as soon as they see Paapa on screen."
Former #HARRYPOTTER Actor Jason Isaacs Backs Paapa Essiedu As The New Severus Snape#SFFGazette https://t.co/BKO67GsVD6
— ComicBookMovie.com (@ComicBook_Movie) July 8, 2025
According to HBO, the series will feature a completely new cast and appeal to a new generation of fans. Each episode will be packed with beloved characters and magical details that fans have cherished for over twenty-five years. Each season will cover one book, allowing for more depth in the storytelling.
Not Worried
Isaacs is not worried about passing the wand to a new generation. "The series is being made by the same people as the films. They are taking their time to adapt each book into a full season, and it’s going to be fantastic."
