'Harry Potter' reboot rocked by sick death threats to star
'Harry Potter' TV drama turns sinister off-screen
The magic may be returning to screens, but behind the scenes of the new Harry Potter reboot, things have taken a dark turn.
Bosses at HBO have reportedly tightened security on set after chilling death threats were aimed at cast members, including new Severus Snape actor Paapa Essiedu.
The hotly anticipated TV adaptation of Harry Potter has already stirred fierce debate, largely due to ongoing controversy surrounding creator J.K. Rowling.
But insiders say the backlash has crossed a dangerous line.
Network chief Casey Bloys admitted the situation has become “scary”, revealing a “serious security team” is now in place to protect stars from harm.
He explained that with such a massive fanbase comes intense scrutiny, and sometimes, outright hostility.
Meanwhile, Essiedu has bravely spoken out about the abuse he’s faced since stepping into the iconic role.
The 35-year-old actor revealed he has received horrifying messages online, including threats telling him to quit or risk being killed.
Some backlash has also been fuelled by racist criticism over his casting, a move that has divided fans.
“It does affect me emotionally,” he admitted, adding that no one should face such treatment simply for doing their job — especially when, as he put it, he’s “just playing a wizard”.
Despite the storm, HBO insists the show is pushing full steam ahead, with plans to stretch the story across a decade, one season per book.
Bloys says actors have not been put off by the long commitment, describing it as a “dream job” for many.