Why Did HBO Cast a Black Snape?

When it comes to the Harry Potter reboot, HBO's decision to cast black actor Paapa Essiedu for Severus Snape has dominated the conversation. Which makes me wonder - was this intentional? Is it about wokeness... or will he be just that good in the role? Join me as I dissect the possibilities and let's hash it out in the comments. Aaaaaaaand here's the links I said I would drop: Paapa Essiedu Hamlet    • Paapa Essiedu's 'To Be Or Not To Be' speec...   David Tennant Hamlet:    • David Tennant - Hamlet's Soliloquy (RSC Ha...   Paapa Essiedu in Black Mirror    • Gaap's Rules Of Human Sacrifice | Demon 79...   Lox Pratt (Draco Malfoy) in Lord of the Flies:    • Jack breaks Piggy’s glasses | Lord of the ...