Harry Potter Star Faces Death Threats, Stands by Trans Rights

0:00It's March 22nd. You're listening to Entertainment and Celebrity News today. AI-powered pop culture updates. I'm Corey with the story. Papa S.I.DU, the Harry Potter star, cast as Severus Snape in the upcoming TV series, has revealed he's receiving death threats from online trolls. They oppose a black actor playing the role originally done by Alan Rickman in the films. S.I.DU shared in a recent interview that these harsh messages pop up on his Instagram, telling him to quit or face violence. He says the abuse hits him emotionally, but also motivates him to keep going. S.I.DU hasn't reported the threats, believing punishment wouldn't help. The role marks a fresh take on the Wizarding World for HBO, nearly 15 years after the last movie. S.I.DU also opened up about his support for trans rights, which differs from author J.K. Rowling's views. Last year, he signed a letter challenging a UK Supreme Court ruling on biological sex, a decision Rowling praised. Despite calls to fire him over this, he stands by artists in the trans community deserving

1:04dignity. Meanwhile, John Liffgaugh cast his Alba Stumble Door, nearly quit after backlash from fans upset over Rowling's gender-critical stance. The 80-year-old actor called the criticism stinging and got pleased from friends with trans kids to walk away. His non-binary former co-star even labeled the casting hurtful. S.I.DU push forward insisting he disagrees with Rowling and praising the Harry Potter story for fighting intolerance. He notes she'll have limited involvement as an executive producer, and he's ready for ongoing debates as the star-studded series take shape.