Wikimedia Commons/Harry Potter HBO Max seri Celebrity SNL satirizes the racist backlash to a Black actor playing Snape in the new Harry Potter reboot. Watch the viral skit now. April 6, 2026 AceShowbiz - This week's episode of Saturday Night Live tackled the controversy surrounding the new Harry Potter reboot on HBO Max, focusing on the casting of Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape. The skit offered a satirical yet pointed look at the backlash that emerged following the trailer release, particularly the viral memes and racist commentary aimed at the choice to cast a Black actor in the role.