Ah. Ok, I've seen that quote. Since that says nothing about how "major" the characters were, we could be talking about Rita Skeeter.
A surprising number of people seem to actually be fond of Snape in some sense. Rowling appears mystified. Evidently she's never heard of the
Byronic Hero.... I personally find him fascinating, but as I said, not someone I'd want in my house. I just think he's interesting because he's one of the most complex characters in the story. Half the reason I went to the movies at all was to see Alan Rickman's portrayal, as Rowling has given him some additional information about Snape's character that I've been hoping to see hints of. I guess I just like a good puzzle.
Edit: so the more interesting question, if we want to continue speculating, is "who got a reprieve?" Hmmm....