Snape is one of the most important character in the Harry Potter books, one of the best character ever created in a fantasy novel. So we think that in the Harry Potter tv series of HBO MAX he deserves to be interpreted by an actor who embodies the book-described characteristics effectively. We, the fans and avid readers of Harry Potter, beseech HBO MAX to place priority on the authenticity of canon when they cast for this pivotal role in their series production. The character Snape, as described in J.K. Rowling's books, has a specific physical description and a particular persona that needs to be manifested on screen as accurately as possible for audiences to connect with the beloved series authentically. This is not just about casting a talented actor; it's about upholding the integrity of the characters that we have grown up with and preserving the authenticity of the world that has been masterfully created in the books. This importance is underscored by the global sales of the Harry Potter books reaching over 500 million copies according to Scholastic. We urge HBO MAX to listen to their audience's requests. Please, sign this petition to ensure the right casting for Snape in the HBO Max series. 

HBO Promised a “Faithful Adaptation” — This Breaks That Commitment
HBO executives have publicly stated their intent to stay true to the books, yet disregarding Snape’s fundamental physical traits contradicts that promise. If HBO is truly dedicated to honouring the books, then casting must reflect the characters as written—not arbitrarily alter them for no narrative reason.

Changing Any Fundamental Aspect of Any Character Is Wrong
Just as it would be wrong to make Kingsley Shacklebolt or Dean Thomas Caucasian, change Cho Chang’s heritage to Australian, cast Fleur Delacour as German, or give Hermione straight blonde hair, it is equally wrong to disregard Snape’s distinct character traits. Similarly, no one would accept altering Harry’s lightning bolt scar into a circle—because these details matter.

This is not about exclusion; it is about respecting the integrity of the source material. Every Harry Potter character’s defining features contribute to who they are and should remain unchanged—especially when it comes to a central, pivotal character like Severus Snape.

The Harry Potter Series Already Has Racial Diversity
The Harry Potter universe is already rich in diversity, featuring a wide range of ethnicities across its cast of characters. Race was never a limiting factor in this world, and diverse representation was always present.

Think to: Dean Thomas, Lee Jordan, Angelina Johnson, Padma Patil, Parvati Patil, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Cho Chang, Blaise Zabini...

Arbitrarily changing a character’s race, especially when it serves no purpose other than performative inclusivity, is not real representation—it is tokenism. It sends the message that minority characters are not worth developing on their own and must instead be inserted into pre-existing roles for the sake of appearances. This approach is not progressive—it is patronising and reductive.

We call on HBO and Warner Bros. to:
1. Cast an actor who accurately reflects Snape’s canonical description (pale, sallow-skinned, greasy black hair, hooked nose).
2. Remain faithful to the source material for ALL characters—no arbitrary changes that distort their essence.
3. Respect the fans and the millions of readers who have waited for an adaptation that truly brings Rowling’s world to life as written.

A few examples of the many, many times Snape is described as below sallow-skinned, pallid or pale: