Paapa Essiedu speaks for the first time ahead of the Harry Potter series launch

Paapa Essiedu, chosen to play Professor Snape, gives his first interview to Time. He recalls discovering the story in the books and says everyone has the right to voice their opinion. "I focused on my work, which is to bring as much humanity, depth and complexity to the character," he says. The series Harry Potter launches on December 25 on HBO Max with the first two episodes. A brand-new cast takes on the major roles: Dominic McLaughlin becomes the apprentice wizard, John Lithgow plays Dumbledore and Janet McTeer portrays McGonagall. Essiedu's casting sparked many comments, including racist backlash, but he has J.K. Rowling's support despite the controversy over her positions. According to AlloCiné, the season includes six additional episodes after this launch.