We have learned that HBO is developing a new television adaptation of the Harry Potter saga, and while we are excited about the opportunity to revisit the Wizarding World, we would like to express our concern regarding the casting choice reportedly considered for the character of Severus Snape.
Severus Snape is one of the most iconic, complex, and impactful characters in J.K. Rowling’s work. His physical appearance, as described in the books — sallow and sickly pale skin, greasy black hair, a hooked nose, and yellow teeth — is a fundamental part of his identity. These features are not just cosmetic details; they symbolize who Snape is within the story’s universe.
The upcoming series will allow us to explore Snape’s character in more depth — as a child, a teenager, within his family and early environment. For that reason, his physical appearance, as faithfully described in the books, becomes even more significant — perhaps even more than for other characters.
A drastic change in this appearance could alter how the audience understands the character’s relationships, particularly with the Marauders.
It could also break the connection that readers have built with this character, based on the faithful descriptions they encountered throughout the series. Many have envisioned Snape exactly as described in the books, and that image is an essential part of their attachment to him.
We want to emphasize that this petition is not directed against the actor reportedly considered, whose talent we respect. It simply reflects our desire for an adaptation that stays true to the original work — especially for a character as significant as Severus Snape.
We urge HBO and the creators of the series to honor the world created by J.K. Rowling and to choose an actor whose appearance reflects the way Snape was originally written in the books.
For a faithful adaptation. For the readers. For the story.
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