Actor Paapa Essiedu has spoken about the racist abuse he has received since being cast as the role of Severus Snape in HBO's upcoming Harry Potter series. The actor, who is English of Ghanian descent, shared that the series' core adult cast has brought out the most vicious racist backlash since his casting. Despite not reporting any reported death threats, Essidu remains committed to making the character his own. He is aware of the "big commitment" the series will impose on his life, but is determined to rise above and resist the abuse. The series has already had some controversy, with author J.K. Rowling recently criticised for her views of transphobicism and suggested that she may take legal action against Essidouu based on his opposing stance.