Harry Potter’s new Hermione makes the internet go wild

The production, which follows Harry Potter and his friends Ron and Hermione in their adult lives, has cast Noma Dumezweni as Hermione. Though Rowling even co-signed on the lineup, saying she’s “so excited with the choice of casting”, some so-called fans are pissed that Hermione is a woman of color.

Many drew attention to the fact that a message of equality is at the core of the Harry Potter series, along with the fact that the books never once mention the colour of Hermione’s skin.

Lead cast for the Harry Potter play was announced Sunday night and the internet went wild.

In the role of Harry is Jamie Parker with Paul Thornley playing Ron, but the controversy simmered from the casting of South African-born Noma Dumezweni, who will taking on the role of Hermione.

In the eight movies based on Rowling’s books, Hermione was played by Emma Watson, who is white, although the character’s race isn’t specified in the books.

“Harry Potter” helmer J.K. Rowling nipped any brewing social media controversy in the bud this morning with a single tweet, saying “Rowling loves black Hermione”.

The story picks up when a middle-aged Harry Potter is an “overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband and father of three school-age children”, according to the Pottermore site.

Jamie Parker will play Harry with Paul Thornley as Ron Weasley.

Others were also delighted with the casting choice. Her work in the 2005 London West End revival of A Raisin In The Sun won her the 2006 Olivier award for best performance in a supporting role. The production, which has the heroic trio played by adults, is set to premiere at London’s Palace Theatre in summer 2016.

The Harry Potter saga lives on.