The TV series nearly lost a big star.
The new Harry Potter TV series, developed by showrunner Francesca Gardiner and based on J.K. Rowling’s books, will feature a completely different cast than the popular movies. Despite the anticipation for the show, J.K. Rowling’s ongoing controversial statements about transgender people have sparked criticism and directed backlash towards the actors involved.
John Lithgow, who plays Dumbledore, recently revealed to The New York Times that he thought about leaving the show because of J.K. Rowling’s controversial opinions. Ultimately, he decided to continue with the Harry Potter series, acknowledging that the topic will likely be brought up in every interview he gives from now on.
In a recent interview, Lithgow stated he disagrees with J.K. Rowling’s views on transgender issues and has never personally met her. He believes the themes of the Harry Potter series actually contradict Rowling’s current stance, describing the books as “clearly on the side of good, fighting against prejudice and hatred.”
Some people saw John Lithgow’s role in the show as an indication he agreed with J.K. Rowling’s views on transgender issues, but he disagrees with that interpretation. Having acted in films like The World According to Garp (1982), Love is Strange (2014), and Jimpa (2025)—all of which deal with themes of gender and sexuality—Lithgow believed it was clear where his support lay: with the transgender community.
More to come…
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2026-03-17 16:57