Paapa Essiedu has revealed that he has been subjected to racist death threats following his casting as Professor Snape in the forthcoming HBO Max Harry Potter adaptation.
The star, known for his roles in Black Mirror and I May Destroy You, was unveiled as one of the first leading stars of the TV series last year.
However, his casting sparked backlash from across the spectrum. Mr Essiedu faced criticism for joining a project that had outspoken author JK Rowling serving as executive producer.
Ms Rowling has faced numerous calls to be cancelled following her vocal support for biological women's rights and opposition to pro-trans policy.
Paapa Essiedu will take over from Alan Rickman in the role of Snape | PAMeanwhile, Mr Essiedu also faced criticism for being cast in the role of Snape as a successor to Alan Rickman. Some fans branded it a case of "race-swapping".
Describing the harrowing reality of checking social media, Mr Essiedu told The Sunday Times: "I've been told, 'Quit or I'll murder you.'"
He added: "The reality is that if I look at Instagram, I will see somebody saying, 'I'm going to come to your house and kill you.'"
Mr Essiedu conceded that the threats take an emotional toll, stating that while he hopes to remain safe, no one should endure such abuse simply for doing their job.
Paapa Essiedu was one of the first actors confirmed for the series
|PA
Despite the vitriol, Mr Essiedu maintains that the hostility strengthens his resolve.
"But the abuse fuels me," he told the newspaper. "And makes me more passionate about making this character my own, because I think of how I felt as a kid."
The Olivier-nominated performer explained that as a child, he would picture himself flying on broomsticks at Hogwarts. The prospect of young viewers seeing themselves reflected in that magical world drives him forward.
"That's motivation to not be intimidated by someone saying they'd rather I died instead of doing work I'm going to be really proud of," he added.
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JK Rowling's involvement has also caused controversy
| PAMr Essiedu was an enthusiastic reader growing up, with his mother taking him to the library during school holidays when she could not afford childcare. The books provided an escape during difficult periods of his childhood.
Mr Essiedu has committed to a decade-long involvement with the streaming series, which Warner Bros plans to launch in 2027.
"Yes, this is a big commitment," he acknowledged. "I'll be 45 by the time I finish and I know my life is going to change in a big way, but I have to just surrender to that. I could have children by the end of this."
The new adaptation will feature an almost entirely fresh ensemble. Dominic McLaughlin will portray Harry Potter, with Arabella Stanton cast as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout taking on Ron Weasley.
Alan Rickman played Professor Snape in the films
|WARNER BROS
Mr Essiedu has also made his position clear regarding the Harry Potter author's aforementioned stance on transgender issues.
The actor was among more than 400 signatories to a petition urging the British entertainment industry to safeguard trans rights.
"My points of view are mine and will continue to be so," he stated. "I signed that letter because I believe that artists in the trans community have a right to be treated with dignity and should be able to work without being intimidated."
The actor confirmed he would put his name to the letter again today and emphasised that the production team has been supportive of his position.