Skip to main content
See every side of every news story
Published loading...Updated

SNL Sketch Has Snape Call Out Harry Potter as Racist in Satire on Fandom Backlash

The sketch mocked racist reactions to Paapa Essiedu’s casting and joked about the franchise’s treatment of Black characters.

  • On Saturday, Saturday Night Live featured comedian Kam Patterson as "Black Snape," satirizing the discourse surrounding the upcoming HBO Harry Potter series and the casting of English actor Paapa Essiedu.
  • Essiedu's casting sparked significant online backlash, with some detractors arguing the character was written as white; this choice is one of many controversies surrounding the upcoming adaptation.
  • During Weekend Update, Patterson's Snape quipped, "And the number-one suspect is Black Snape?" while pointing to Professor Quirrell, adding, "They didn't even look at the white guy in the turban!"
  • Essiedu recently revealed he has received death threats due to his casting, telling The Times, "I've been told, 'Quit, or I'll murder you.'"
  • Patterson's character declared, "The whole Wizarding World is racist," while Jost reluctantly said, "I'm starting to think J.K. Rowling might be problematic," reflecting broader franchise scrutiny.
Insights by Ground AI

10 Articles

Think freely.Subscribe and get full access to Ground NewsSubscriptions start at $9.99/yearSubscribe

Bias Distribution

  • 83% of the sources lean Left
83% Left

Factuality Info Icon

To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium

Ownership

Info Icon

To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage

Variety broke the news in Los Angeles, United States on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
Too Big Arrow Icon
Sources are mostly out of (0)

Similar News Topics

News
Feed Dots Icon
For You
Search Icon
Search
Blindspot LogoBlindspotLocal