Spotlight on Paapa Essiedu
Published on 12 November 2025
Who is Paapa Essiedu?
Paapa Essiedu is one of England’s most exciting actors of his generation. Born in 1990 and raised in Walthamstow, North East London, he discovered acting thanks to his A-level drama teacher at Forest School, who encouraged him to pursue it. He trained at the Guildford School of Music and Drama and began his professional career with the Royal Shakespeare Company in 2012, appearing in The Merry Wives of Windsor, Hamlet, and King Lear.
Where have you seen him before?
Paapa has earned critical acclaim for both stage and screen. On television, he shone in I May Destroy You, earning nominations for an Emmy and a British Academy Television Award. He has also appeared in Anne Boleyn, Gangs of London, and The Lazarus Project. On stage, highlights include The Effect at the National Theatre, and Death of England: Delroy (a seriously challenging 100-minute monologue) at Soho Place, part two of the series by Clint Dyer and Roy Williams.
Isn’t he joining the new Harry Potter television series?
Yes! Paapa is joining the main cast of the new Harry Potter TV series as Severus Snape, adding another high-profile role to his rapidly growing career.
So, what is All My Sons about?
Arthur Miller’s family epic explores the impact of war, loyalty, and moral responsibility on an American family after World War II. This powerful production at Wyndham’s Theatre stars Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad), Marianne Jean-Baptiste, and Paapa Essiedu in a cast bringing Miller’s story vividly to life.
Why see Paapa Essiedu on stage?
Paapa Essiedu has been consistently praised for his commanding presence and emotional depth. From Shakespearean classics to modern state-of-the-nation plays, and from Emmy-nominated TV work to his upcoming role as Snape, he is an actor to watch. Seeing him in All My Sons promises a masterclass in performance alongside a stellar cast.
All My Sons is playing at Wyndham’s Theatre from 14 November 2025 to 7 March 2026. Book your tickets today.
By Hay Brunsdon
I've 15 years of writing and editorial experience, and starting working in the West End theatre industry in 2012. When not watching or writing about theatre I'm usually swimming, hiking, running, or training for triathlons in the Stroud valleys.