HBO 'Harry Potter' showrunner reports racist abuse directed at Paapa Essiedu

The head of HBO's new series based on the 'Harry Potter' universe stated that Paapa Essiedu, who was cast as Severus Snape, faced aggressive reactions from a segment of the audience following the announcement of his selection. According to the showrunner, the actor became the target of "horrible" racist abuse.

Refusal to comment on the author's views

Paapa Essiedu himself, addressing the situation and J.K. Rowling's public statements, categorically refused to engage in a debate with the writer over her stance on transgender identity.

«Я взагалі не хочу говорити» ("I don't want to talk about it at all") regarding the author, the actor emphasised, adding that "transgender people" should be treated with "dignity".

The actor expanded on his view, emphasising universal human rights: «Трансгендерні люди, квір-люди, люди всіх віросповідань і рас мають право на поважне, гідне та безпечне ставлення в будь-який час — чи то на робочому місці, вдома, чи на вулиці, де завгодно» ("Transgender people, queer people, people of all faiths and races have the right to respectful, dignified and safe treatment at all times — whether at work, at home, or on the street, anywhere").