In a comedy segment that's set social media alight, Saturday Night Live star Bowen Yang delivered a show-stopping performance as everyone's favourite house-elf, Dobby from Harry Potter, with a distinctly political twist aimed at author JK Rowling.
The Sketch That Divided the Wizarding World
During SNL's coveted "Weekend Update" segment, Yang appeared in full Dobby costume, complete with oversized ears and ragged pillowcase, but with a very modern agenda. The beloved character took direct aim at his creator, JK Rowling, over her controversial stance on transgender issues.
"When I found out how she feels about trans people, I was like, 'Ah, this b**** hates house-elves!'" Yang's Dobby declared, bringing both laughter and pointed commentary to the late-night show.
Social Media Erupts
The sketch has rapidly gone viral, with viewers divided between those praising Yang's bold comedy and Rowling supporters defending the author. Twitter and Instagram have been flooded with clips of the performance, sparking heated debates across platforms.
Many Harry Potter fans expressed emotional responses to seeing one of the series' most beloved characters used to critique its creator. "Dobby standing up for marginalised communities is exactly what he would have wanted," one viewer commented, while others criticised the sketch as "unfair targeting" of Rowling.
Not the First Wizarding World Dig
This isn't SNL's first foray into Rowling-related satire. The show has previously featured multiple sketches referencing the ongoing controversy surrounding the author's comments about transgender people.
However, Yang's heartfelt and hilarious portrayal of Dobby marks one of the most memorable takes on the subject to date, blending fantasy nostalgia with contemporary social commentary in a way that's got everyone talking.
The sketch comes amid ongoing discussions about separating art from the artist, and whether fans can continue to enjoy the Wizarding World while disagreeing with its creator's personal views.
As the clip continues to circulate online, one thing is certain: Bowen Yang's Dobby has delivered a comedy moment that will be remembered long after the laughter fades.
