JK Rowling has sparked controversy once again after appearing to take a swipe at the stars of the Harry Potter film series in a cryptic post on X.
The author, who has become a divisive figure due to her views on transgender issues, seemingly referenced actors Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint—each of whom has publicly supported trans rights in recent years.
Rowling’s Comments and Online Reaction
In April 2024, Rowling took to social media to express her anger over the Cass Review, a report that examined the provision of healthcare for transgender youth in the UK.
“I read Cass this morning, and my anger’s been mounting all day,” she wrote. “Kids have been irreversibly harmed, and thousands are complicit—not just medics, but the celebrity mouthpieces, unquestioning media, and cynical corporations.”
One user suggested that Radcliffe and Watson should issue a public apology to Rowling, assuring her that she would forgive them. Rowling responded: “Not safe, I’m afraid.”
She added: “Celebs who cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women’s hard-won rights and who used their platforms to cheer on the transitioning of minors can save their apologies for traumatised detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single-sex spaces.”
The controversy deepened on 18 March when Rowling replied to a post asking, “What actor/actress instantly ruins a movie for you?” She responded: “Three guesses. Sorry, but that was irresistible.”
Although she did not name anyone directly, many social media users assumed she was referring to Radcliffe, Watson, and Grint—prompting a wave of criticism.
“That’ll be the three people who made you rich, right?” one person replied.
Another user mocked her response, writing: “‘The three actors I’ve known since they were children are now grown adults that don’t agree with my political views, so now I hate them despite having personally profited from their labour’ is such an amazing own-goal.”
A third added: “And whoever that may be, I’m sure they are busy living their best life rather than vague-posting about you, Joanne.”
Harry Potter Stars’ Support for Trans Rights
Several actors from the Harry Potter franchise have publicly opposed Rowling’s stance on transgender issues.
Daniel Radcliffe responded directly in 2020, writing in a blog post for LGBTQ+ charity The Trevor Project:
“Transgender women are women. Any statement to the contrary erases the identity and dignity of transgender people and goes against all advice given by professional healthcare associations who have far more expertise on this subject matter than either Jo [Rowling] or I.”
Emma Watson echoed this sentiment in a series of tweets in June 2020, assuring trans people:
“I and so many other people around the world see you, respect you and love you for who you are.”
Rupert Grint also distanced himself from Rowling’s views, telling The Times:
“I firmly stand with the trans community and echo the sentiments expressed by many of my peers. Trans women are women. Trans men are men. We should all be entitled to live with love and without judgment.”
Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley, also voiced her support, writing:
“If Harry Potter was a source of love and belonging for you, that love is infinite and there to take without judgment or question… Trans women are women. I see and love you.”
Ongoing Division
Rowling’s latest remarks have once again ignited debate over her stance on transgender issues and her relationship with the Harry Potter cast. While she continues to defend her views, many of the actors who brought her beloved characters to life remain firm in their support for trans rights, reinforcing a widening divide between the author and those who once worked closely with her.
