JK Rowling reveals why Harry Potter named his son after Snape on Twitter

'Harry paid him tribute in forgiveness and gratitude'

JK Rowling has been faithfully answering any and all Harry Potter-related questions from fans on Twitter the past year or so, and today she sheds some light on the final ‘Nineteen years later’ chapter.

“Why did you pick Snape to name Harry’s kid after? I’m genuinely curious as he was nothing but abusive towards everyone.” a user asked.

They really shouldn’t have had to, as it’s pretty clear from the books that it was a nod to Snape’s loyalty and resolve, but Rowling cleared things up anyway.

“Snape died for Harry out of love for Lily,” she replied. “Harry paid him tribute in forgiveness and gratitude.”

The epilogue to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows revealed that Harry went on to marry Ginny and have three children: James Sirius, Albus Severus (named after Snape) and Lily Luna.

Rowling has since shared her regrets however that she didn’t have Harry marry Hermione.

The wizarding series will get new plot details that “should be considered canon” soon, with the arrival of the musical Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.