J.K. Rowling’s relationship with Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson has soured due to her controversial views on transgender rights. The author has been accused of transphobia after expressing her opinions on social media, particularly in response to an article about “people who menstruate,” where she jokingly asked for alternative words, such as “wumben” or “wimpund”. This sparked widespread outrage, with many fans and actors from the Harry Potter series criticizing her stance.
Radcliffe and Watson have both publicly expressed their support for the trans community, with Radcliffe writing an essay for The Trevor Project to apologize for any pain Rowling’s comments may have caused. Watson, on the other hand, took to Twitter to assure her trans followers that she sees, respects, and loves them for who they are. When a fan suggested that Radcliffe and Watson should apologize to Rowling, the author responded, “Not safe, I’m afraid. Celebs who cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women’s hard-won rights and who used their platforms to cheer on the transitioning of minors can save their apologies for traumatised detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single sex spaces”.
The rift between Rowling and the Harry Potter actors highlights the challenges of navigating complex social issues, even among those who once shared a close professional relationship. While Rowling continues to express her views, Radcliffe and Watson have made it clear where they stand on the issue, prioritizing support and respect for the trans community.
