J.K. Rowling, the renowned author of the “Harry Potter” series, has publicly expressed her discontent with actors Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson due to their support for transgender rights, which contrasts with her own views on the subject. This discord has led Rowling to state that she would not accept apologies from them, even if offered.
The tension began in June 2020 when Rowling shared her opinions on gender identity and sex, which many perceived as transphobic. In response, Daniel Radcliffe, who portrayed Harry Potter in the film adaptations, released a statement affirming, “Transgender women are women.” He emphasized that any assertion otherwise “erases the identity and dignity of transgender people.” Emma Watson, known for her role as Hermione Granger, also voiced her support for the transgender community, stating, “Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned.”
In April 2024, following the publication of the Cass Review—a study examining medical treatments for transgender youth in the UK—Rowling reiterated her stance. She criticized “celebrity mouthpieces” who supported transgender rights, implicitly referencing Radcliffe and Watson. When a social media user suggested that these actors should apologize to her, Rowling responded, “Not safe, I’m afraid. Celebs who cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women’s hard-won rights… can save their apologies.”
This public disagreement highlights a significant rift between Rowling and the actors who brought her characters to life. While Radcliffe and Watson have maintained their support for transgender rights, Rowling remains steadfast in her beliefs, leading to a strained relationship that appears unlikely to mend in the foreseeable future.
