Veteran actor John Lithgow has publicly responded to significant backlash from fans regarding his involvement in the upcoming HBO television adaptation of the Harry Potter franchise. The acclaimed performer, known for his diverse roles spanning from a cardinal to a president, was announced last year to portray Albus Dumbledore in the highly anticipated series, set to debut in 2027.
Fan Criticism Over JK Rowling's Views
Following the October 2023 announcement of his casting, Lithgow faced immediate calls from supporters to withdraw from the project. This criticism stems directly from author JK Rowling's publicly expressed views on trans rights, which have sparked widespread controversy and debate. Rowling, who serves as an executive producer on the new television series, has previously faced backlash for liking transphobic tweets in 2017 and 2018.
A Difficult Decision to Make
In a recent interview with Variety, the 80-year-old actor admitted that deciding to join the cast despite the controversy was a challenging choice. 'It was a hard one to make,' Lithgow revealed, acknowledging the sensitive nature of the surrounding discourse. He emphasized that while he takes Rowling's anti-trans views 'extremely seriously,' he remains prepared for differing opinions and understands that not everyone will support his professional decision.
Separating Art from Artist
Lithgow offered a nuanced perspective on the situation, stating: 'She has created this amazing canon for young people, and it has jumped into the consciousness of society. It's about good versus evil, kindness versus cruelty.' The actor expressed his personal view that Rowling's controversial positions seem 'ironic and inexplicable' given the themes of her work. He further noted that within the actual Harry Potter stories themselves, 'you see no trace of transphobic sensitivity.'
The performer also clarified that despite Rowling's executive producer credit, she is 'not really involved in its production' according to his understanding, and he has never personally met the author. Instead, Lithgow praised the production team as 'remarkable' and expressed discomfort with demands that he abandon the role, concluding firmly: 'I chose not to do that.'
Broader Casting Developments and Past Conflicts
The new Harry Potter television series continues to generate headlines beyond this controversy. Last month, actor Ralph Fiennes appeared to inadvertently reveal that Peaky Blinders star Cillian Murphy has been cast as Lord Voldemort in the adaptation, though official confirmation remains pending.
This situation echoes previous public conflicts between Rowling and original Harry Potter film cast members. Last September, the author issued a strong condemnation of actress Emma Watson, accusing her of being 'ignorant of how ignorant she is' regarding gender critical issues. Rowling has previously stated she would 'never forgive' Watson, Daniel Radcliffe, and Rupert Grint for what she perceives as their alignment with movements that threaten women's rights.
The author specifically criticized Watson's privileged position, contrasting it with her own experience of poverty while writing the original novels. Rowling argued that the actress's public statements have 'poured more petrol on the flames' of abuse directed at gender critical voices while dismissing Watson's recent attempts to soften her criticism as a cynical shift following changing public attitudes.
As production continues toward the 2027 release, these ongoing debates highlight the complex intersection of artistic creation, authorial legacy, and contemporary social values that continues to surround one of the world's most beloved literary franchises.
