Alan Rickman’s Snape Performance Left Rupert Grint Truly Shaken

With HBO ’s upcoming Harry Potter reboot on the horizon, fans are taking a nostalgic look back at the original film series. The casting choices for the beloved franchise have long been praised, with each actor seeming to embody their character perfectly. Among these, Alan Rickman ’s take on Professor Snape stands out as a masterclass in acting, so much so that it blurred the line between fiction and reality for those on set.

Alan Rickman’s Intimidating Presence on Set

Alan Rickman, known for his roles in Die Hard and other classics, brought a level of intensity to Snape that left a mark on everyone around him. Rupert Grint, who played Ron Weasley, has often shared fond memories from his time filming, but one story in particular reveals just how convincing Rickman was. During a college interview, Grint recalled feeling genuinely unnerved by Rickman’s presence, even when the cameras weren’t rolling.

While filming a Potions class scene for the first movie, Grint doodled a less-than-flattering sketch of Rickman. Unbeknownst to him, Rickman was standing right behind him, watching the whole thing unfold. Grint later admitted,

I drew this rather unpretty picture of Alan Rickman, and as I was drawing it Alan Rickman was standing right behind me, and I was so scared.

The incident left Grint mortified, but Rickman’s reaction was surprisingly warm. Years later, Rickman revealed he kept the drawing and even had Grint sign it, saying, “I made him sign it, and I have it in my possession. And I’m very fond of it.”

Setting the Bar for Future Snape Actors

Rickman’s portrayal of Snape is widely regarded as one of the most iconic performances in the series. His ability to bring depth, mystery, and a quiet menace to the role made Snape both feared and beloved by audiences. This legacy, however, has created a unique challenge for HBO as they cast the character for the new adaptation.

Any actor stepping into Snape’s shoes will inevitably be compared to Rickman, whose performance set a nearly unreachable standard. The upcoming reboot has already sparked debate, especially with the decision to cast Paapa Essiedu in the role. Instead of focusing on comparisons to Rickman, much of the conversation has shifted to the topic of race-swapping, despite promises to remain faithful to the original books.

The Lasting Impact of a Legendary Performance

Rickman’s influence on the Harry Potter films is undeniable. His commitment to the character left a lasting impression not only on fans but also on his fellow cast members. Even years after the final film, his performance continues to be a benchmark for excellence in casting and character portrayal.

The Harry Potter films remain available for streaming, allowing new generations to experience the magic—and the unforgettable performances—that made the series a cultural phenomenon.