John Lithgow brands JK Rowling's trans views 'inexplicable' amid Dumbledore role backlash
Veteran actor John Lithgow has publicly criticised author JK Rowling's stance on transgender rights, describing her views as "ironic and inexplicable" in a recent appearance at the Rotterdam Film Festival. The 80-year-old, set to portray Albus Dumbledore in HBO's upcoming Harry Potter television adaptation, also revealed his "upset" over the backlash he has faced for accepting the role, which stems from Rowling's controversial comments about the transgender community.
Lithgow's conflicted stance on the Harry Potter production
During the festival, Lithgow emphasised that he takes the subject of transgender rights "extremely seriously" and clarified that Rowling is "not really involved in this production at all." He expressed particular confusion over Rowling's beliefs, noting that the Harry Potter series, which he praised as an "amazing canon for young people," revolves around themes of "kindness versus cruelty" and "acceptance." Lithgow stated, "I find it ironic and somewhat inexplicable that Rowling has expressed such views. I've read about them, and I've never met her."
Backlash and personal dilemmas over the Dumbledore role
The casting of Lithgow has sparked significant consternation among fans and activists, leading to an open letter urging him to step away from the project. Lithgow disclosed that a "very good friend" with a transgender daughter sent him the letter, titled "An Open Letter to John Lithgow: Please Walk Away from Harry Potter," which prompted him to consider declining the role. He described the decision as "hard," saying, "It made me uncomfortable and unhappy that people insisted I walk away from the job. I chose not to do that." Despite the criticism, Lithgow defended his involvement, highlighting that the Potter canon shows "no trace of transphobic sensitivity" and that Dumbledore is a "beautiful role."
Reactions from other cast members and Rowling's response
Lithgow is not alone in facing scrutiny; other stars of the new series, including Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid and Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, have also addressed Rowling's views. Frost previously stated that his opinions "don't align in any way, shape or form" with Rowling's, while Essiedu signed a letter advocating for trans rights in the industry. In response to reports suggesting Rowling might intervene in casting decisions, the author asserted on X/Twitter that she "doesn't have the power to sack an actor" and "wouldn't exercise it if I did," adding that she opposes removing jobs over differing legally protected beliefs.
Production details and ongoing controversies
The Harry Potter series, currently in production and slated for a 2027 premiere on HBO, has become a focal point for debates on transgender rights and artistic integrity. Lithgow praised the production team, calling them "remarkable" and expressing his eagerness to collaborate. However, the controversy continues to simmer, with an audience member at the Rotterdam event reportedly leaving "in protest" over Lithgow's involvement. Lithgow responded calmly, stating, "I'm perfectly ready for collisions of opinion. I understand it." This incident underscores the deep divisions surrounding Rowling's comments, which have drawn criticism from many, including former Harry Potter film stars, over the past six years.
