Anticipation for the new Harry Potter series is high. As one of the most beloved book and film franchises of all time, any adaptation will inevitably be held to a high standard. More than just an IP, the wizarding world has inspired a level of passion among fans that is difficult to replicate.
A screenshot of (from left to right) Hermione Granger, Harry Potter, and Ron Weasley at Hogwarts from the trailer for HBO’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – YouTube @hbomax
READ: Oriental Land Company Announces Disney Cruise Operations in Japan
The first trailer for the television series, which dropped yesterday, will be carefully scrutinized for weeks. One of the most discussed aspects of the trailer is fans’ first look at Severus Snape. Initial reactions have been less than enthusiastic.
First look at Snape…and nope😑 pic.twitter.com/kftBJeUrGO
— Steph Anie (@mynerdyhome) March 25, 2026
Jessika Lindstrom at Geeks + Gamers wrote in her review of the trailer a sentiment that seems to be held by many: “Whatever excitement once felt, even the tugs of nostalgia, were squashed the very second black Snape was shown in a few seconds of the trailer.”
Redefining and Recasting Snape
The announcement that Paapa Essiedu was in discussions to play Snape was met with skepticism from fans. His first on-screen appearance does little to ease those concerns. As one of the most vividly described characters in the Harry Potter novels, many fans argue that Essiedu looks entirely different from the source material.
Others counter that the showrunners aimed to cast the best actor for the role, regardless of race.
Alan Rickman as Severus Snape in Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part 2 – YouTube, MovieClips
READ: ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Cast Makes Marvel Political Again
The late Alan Rickman, who played Snape in the films, left an indelible impression on audiences. For many, his portrayal still defines the character. Some fans suggested that casting Essiedu signaled a new direction. In theory, that could reduce direct comparisons. The trailer has now delivered that first look. A growing question is whether HBO is deliberately sparking controversy.
Second look at Paapa Essiedu as Snape in HBO’s Harry Potter series.
People can no longer keep claiming this was purely about casting the best person for the role. If that were true, they would have cared whether he actually looked like Snape. They clearly did not.
That means… pic.twitter.com/k3CeGzNyET
— MasteroftheTDS (@MasteroftheTDS) March 25, 2026
Many fans feel HBO had stronger options for the role of Snape. A popular alternative is Adam Driver, known for his dark, brooding turn as Kylo Ren in the Star Wars sequels. Edited images swapping Essiedu for Driver are spreading across social media. They highlight a growing sense of dissatisfaction with the casting choice.
I’m not an Adam Driver fan but he is the perfect modern casting for Snape & unfortunately @HBO doesn’t care. Suck😑 pic.twitter.com/p0bHCGNWlR
— thatstarwarsgirl (@thatstarwarsgrl) March 9, 2025
It’s not just the casting drawing criticism. The world created by J.K. Rowling is distinct and deeply recognizable. In the earlier films, director Chris Columbus brought it to life in a way that satisfied many fans. That tone has carried into theme parks. Much of the new trailer captures that same sense of magic. However, the first look at Snape strikes some viewers as generic and uninspired.
The biggest problem with Snapes casting is even based on the costume if I showed this to any rando on the street they couldnt tell you what genre this would be from, let alone what specific IP this guy is suppose to exist in. pic.twitter.com/CkHCDDIxuk
— Epic Mike (@The_Epic_Mike) March 25, 2026
Fans Unimpressed
Ultimately, capturing Snape goes beyond physical appearance. It includes his personality, mannerisms, and costume. Getting those elements right is essential. As a central figure in the Harry Potter story, Snape is one of several characters the series must deliver well to earn fan support.
A screenshot of Harry at the Hogwarts Quidditch Pitch in HBO’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone trailer – YouTube @hbomax
READ: Gutfeld Continues to Dominate Late Night Viewership as Ratings Dwarf Colbert, Kimmel
The mixed reaction to this first look—ranging from concern to outright criticism—suggests a broader hesitation among viewers. For some, the new portrayal has yet to inspire confidence, let alone excitement. Others aren’t angry—they’re simply unimpressed. That lack of engagement may be the most troubling sign for the new adaptation.
First look at Snape and I’m not impressed pic.twitter.com/H9ZNF3IZAA
— Xue AKA Xray Girl 🍷🧈✌️ (@xraygirl_) March 25, 2026
As the original films remain culturally relevant, many fans may continue returning to them to revisit Hogwarts on screen.
What did you think of the first look at Snape? Let us know in the comments!
UP NEXT: Before Executives Took Credit, Tony Baxter Built the Disney Parks You Love
Even if I would want to like it, they all look so bad.
Funny how redheads and goths always get recast into groids. I’m still amazed at how the fans seemed to not care when The Sandman cast an “urban youth” as Death. Her appearance was so iconic for its time, and to change it with a race swap for me at least seemed like a slap in the face. As for this Potter reboot, it was always doomed to failure because libshits can’t create anything. Rowling is a hack of a writer and the books are simplistic and poorly written if you have an intellect above a teenager and their scribbled fanfics. The fandom for Potter are some of the most radical leftists out there, especially over the whole trans issue. The only good thing about the entire situation is at least I get to watch the left fighting itself every time someone mentions Rowling.
Somehow it looks even worse than I expected.
Best thing folks can do is just not watch it, if you are subscribed to HBO, cancel it. If you know folks who have an HBO subscription, gently encourage them to cancel it.
Which will be more progressive, this or “the American society of magical negroes”?
Black Snape……Moan.
We wuz potion mastas an shieet!