Let’s talk about the HBO Max Harry Potter series for a second… 🐍✨
I’m just gonna hop on this topic right quick and share some thoughts. As we all know, Paapa Essiedu has been cast to play the enigmatic Severus Snape.
Now, I’m not gonna lie: when the news first came out, I was peeved. Snape is a character so incredibly dear to my heart, and Alan Rickman’s portrayal will forever be my absolute favorite. It’s hard to imagine anyone else in those robes.
But I’ve taken the time to reflect. I’m opening myself up to this new take because Paapa Essiedu is a genuinely good actor and he deserves a chance. I’ve seen a sliver of his work, and the man has talent. However, as a long-time fan, I do have one minor thing...
The costume design stinks. 💀
Is that... leather?
In the year of our Lord 2026, we’re putting the Potions Master in leather?
What is he doing, moonlighting as a background dancer in a Matrix reboot?
Is he joining a biker gang?
Did the costume department mistake Hogwarts for a 2005 Hot Topic?
I hate that outfit with a burning passion, but let’s be clear: that is on the costume designer, not the actor. Don't blame Paapa for the fact that the wardrobe department apparently thinks "Dark Arts" means "Early 2000s Goth Club." Unless he’s brewing Polyjuice Potion at a rave, that leather has no business being in the dungeons. It’s a choice. A wrong choice. A "who let this pass the mood board" choice.
The most important point:
Apparently, Paapa has been receiving death threats just for doing his job. As a Snape fan, I can drag that jacket to the Forbidden Forest and back all day, but as an Alan Rickman fan, I am disgusted.
If Alan Rickman were still with us, he would be absolutely ASHAMED of anyone sending threats to a fellow actor. You cannot claim to love the "original" while acting like a total monster to the new guy. It's embarrassing.
Give the man a chance. Critique the leather—the fashion police are currently obtaining a warrant—but leave the actor alone. He’s just a man with a wand, a dream, and a REALLY unfortunate jacket.