The Essential Need for Diversity in the Wizarding World
In the realm of fantasy, where the extraordinary is ordinary, the Harry Potter franchise has long captivated audiences with its magical allure. Spanning seven books, eight films, an official play, and an upcoming TV series, this beloved series has become a cultural phenomenon. However, despite its popularity, the series has faced criticism for its lack of diversity, particularly in its portrayal of key characters.
As the narrative unfolds, the focus on discrimination within the magical world, though fictional, mirrors real-world issues. Yet, the series predominantly features white characters in leading roles. The few non-white characters like Dean Thomas, Kingsley Shacklebolt, and Cho Chang, unfortunately, do not occupy central roles in the story. This underrepresentation is a glaring contrast to the series’ thematic exploration of discrimination and inclusivity.
The upcoming HBO series presents an opportunity to address this disparity. The stage production of “The Cursed Child” set a precedent by casting a Black actress as Hermione Granger, a step towards rectifying the franchise’s diversity gap. Such a change in the TV series would not only enrich the narrative but also resonate more deeply with the themes of discrimination that are already present in the story.
Hermione Granger: A Character Beyond Skin Color
One of the central characters, Hermione Granger, originally portrayed by Emma Watson in the films, is primarily described as having bushy hair and brown eyes. This general description leaves room for interpretation, making the character’s transition to being a Black woman in “The Cursed Child” a seamless one. Unlike other characters whose physical traits are more distinctly described, Hermione’s appearance can adapt without losing the essence of her character. This flexibility in her portrayal opens up a world of possibilities for her character development in the upcoming series.
The Symbolism of Hermione’s Struggle as a Muggle-born Witch
Hermione’s character arc as a muggle-born witch is a subtle yet powerful exploration of racial discrimination. Throughout the series, she and other muggle-born characters face derogatory terms, social ostracization, and even physical threats. This thinly-veiled metaphor for real-world racism becomes even more poignant if Hermione is portrayed as a Black character. Her experiences would not only reflect the struggles of being a muggle-born witch but also resonate with the societal challenges faced by people of color.
Moreover, Hermione’s advocacy for the rights of House Elves, through her creation of S.P.E.W., further underscores her empathy and connection with marginalized groups. If Hermione were to be portrayed as Black, it would add a deeper layer of understanding and relatability to her character, especially in her fight against the subjugation of House Elves.
Redefining the Series with a Diverse Cast
The casting of a Black Hermione in the upcoming HBO series would set a new tone for the franchise. It would allow the series to stand out from the previous films, offering a fresh perspective on a familiar story. The portrayal of Hermione by Emma Watson was iconic, and any new actress will face inevitable comparisons. However, introducing a Black Hermione would distinguish the new series, allowing the character to be appreciated in a new light without being overshadowed by previous portrayals.
While concerns about potential backlash against a young actress taking on this role are valid, it is essential to prioritize representation and inclusivity over fears of internet hate. The decision to cast a Black Hermione, as initiated in “The Cursed Child”, aligns with the character’s story and the series’ overarching themes. It would be a bold and necessary step towards increasing diversity within the cast and differentiating this new adaptation from its predecessors.
In conclusion, the Harry Potter series has a unique opportunity to evolve with the times by embracing diversity in its upcoming TV adaptation. By casting a Black Hermione, the series can offer a more inclusive and resonant portrayal of its characters and themes. This change would not only enhance the narrative but also set the new series apart, marking a new chapter in the franchise’s legacy.
Stream the Magic: Harry Potter Films on Max
For fans eager to revisit the magic of the wizarding world, all of the Harry Potter films are available for streaming on Max in the U.S. This provides a perfect opportunity to delve back into the beloved story and prepare for the new adventures that the upcoming series promises to bring.
