NEW YORK — A vanishing spell wasn’t necessary.
James Snyder, who starred in the Broadway production of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” has been relieved of his duties following a conduct complaint from his co-star.
Representatives for the Tony Award-winning play announced Sunday night that the actor’s contract was terminated at the conclusion of an independent investigation, following his suspension last fall after the actress who played his wife escalated matters.
“On November 19, 2021, the producers of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child for the first time received a complaint from Diane Davis regarding the conduct of fellow cast member James Snyder,” the statement read. “Immediately upon receiving this complaint the producers commissioned an independent investigation by a third party, and Mr. Snyder was suspended pending the investigation’s completion.”
“At the conclusion of the investigation, the producers decided Mr. Snyder should not return to the production and terminated his contract,” it continued. “Ms. Davis has made the personal decision to take a leave of absence. Out of respect for her privacy — and to maintain the integrity of the investigation — we will make no further comment regarding the matter.
Snyder, 40, has been playing the title role since a new, shorter version of the production reopened on Broadway on Nov. 12, 2021. Davis portrayed the role of Harry Potter’s wife, Ginny, since 2019.
Based on an original new story about author J.K. Rowling’s iconic boy wizard, the play was restaged as a one show theatrical event and made its world premiere at the Lyric Theater.
Co-created by Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, the story takes place 19 years after Harry, Ron and Hermione saved the wizarding world.
The producers statement concluded: “We are committed to fostering a safe and inclusive workplace, which is why we have robust workplace policies and procedures in place for all those involved in ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.’ This includes strict prohibitions against harassment in any form, as well as channels through which any employee can report conduct that they believe is inappropriate. We will continue to do all we can to ensure the extremely talented team that brings this production to life feels safe, empowered, and fully supported.”
Snyder’s Broadway credits include “Cry-Baby,” “If/Then” and “In Transit.” The Santa Clara native was also seen in the movies “She’s the Man,” “The Gingerbread Man,” and CBS drama series such as “The Good Wife” and “Blue Bloods.”
Reps for the actor did not respond to a request for comment.
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