'Harry Potter' Almost Had a Very Different Severus Snape

The character of Severus Snape, and his moral ambiguity, are unquestionably a critical part of the Harry Potter franchise. Throughout the film series, the role is played by Alan Rickman, who embodies the character phenomenally. In fact, he played the part so well that many fans cannot imagine the films without Rickman's Snape. But before landing on Rickman, the producers very nearly went in a different direction for the character. Casting can be a difficult process, and it's not uncommon for actors to come close to parts and later drop out. That is what happened with Snape before Rickman took on the role.