Spider-Man star Andrew Garfield has made a pointed remark about author JK Rowling while discussing his recent viewing of the Harry Potter film series for the first time. In an interview with Hits Radio, the 42-year-old Los Angeles-born actor referred to Rowling as "she that shall remain nameless," a playful nod to the franchise's villain Lord Voldemort, often called "he who shall not be named."
Praise for Films and Artists
Despite the tongue-in-cheek criticism, Garfield was effusive in his praise for the Harry Potter movies and their creative teams. He highlighted lead actor Daniel Radcliffe's performance, stating, "I hadn't watched the Harry Potters until recently ... and he's really good in those Harry Potter movies. Those Harry Potter movies are really good."
Garfield elaborated on his appreciation for the behind-the-scenes artisans, mentioning a makeup artist named Claire who worked in the creature workshop. "The soul and the spirit of a lot of the essence of the themes of those films, and all the artisans and craftspeople... I feel like, oh man, we can't throw the baby out with the bathwater," he said. "There are so many beautiful artists that worked on those films. Anyway, I have a newfound appreciation for all of the artists."
Context of Rowling Controversy
Garfield's comments come amid ongoing division in the entertainment industry over Rowling's views on gender. Last year, Rowling supported the campaign group For Women Scotland in legal challenges over the definition of "woman" in the Equality Act. The UK Supreme Court ruled in April that the terms "woman" and "sex" refer to biological women and biological sex, affecting transgender women's access to public boards and single-sex spaces.
Rowling has previously appeared to criticise Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint for their support of transgender rights. When asked which actor ruins a movie for her, she responded cryptically, "Three guesses. Sorry, but that was irresistible."
Other celebrities have spoken out against Rowling's stance, with David Tennant opposing her views and Pedro Pascal calling her a "heinous loser" after she posted a celebratory photo following the Supreme Court ruling. The Independent has contacted Rowling's representative for comment on Garfield's remarks.
