Pro-trans activists' criticism catches John Lithgow off guard as he joins the new 'Harry Potter' series
If you've been keeping tabs on the literary scene, chances are you've stumbled upon the heated debates surrounding J.K. Rowling and her views on transgender individuals. The women's rights activist, famed for creating the Harry Potter universe, has found herself at the center of controversy due to her beliefs that biological sex is immutable and that acknowledging it is imperative to protect women's rights[2].
Rowling, an open supporter of transgender individuals' right to live authentically[5], has been vocal about her opposition to gender self-identification laws, criticisms of phrases like "people who menstruate," and concerns about young people transitioning[1][2]. Critics denounce these views as transphobic, with organizations like GLAAD denouncing her rhetoric as harmful[3].
But, what about the world of Hogwarts and Dumbledore's enchanted castle? Has Rowling's stance on transgender issues had a significant impact on the Harry Potter series' ongoing adaptations?
The Enchanted Universe Unaltered ( For Now)
While the original films precede Rowling's public commentary on trans issues, recent developments have brought about mixed outcomes:
- The Original Films: No reported casting changes tied to Rowling's views.
- HBO's Upcoming TV Adaptation: Rowling serves as an executive producer, yet HBO affirms that her views haven't influenced casting or hiring decisions[5]. The company proudly toes the line between collaborating with Rowling and distancing production choices from her personal opinions[5].
Actor Backlash: Walking the Fine Line
Numerous Harry Potter actors, such as Emma Watson and Eddie Redmayne, have publicly affirmed transgender rights in stark contrast to Rowling's stance[1]. Pedro Pascal recently labelled her a "heinous loser" amid discussions about transgender healthcare[4]. However, no concrete evidence indicates these criticisms have altered casting decisions.
Pedro Pascal (left) and J.K. Rowling (right) have been at odds over Rowling's stance on transgender issues. (Source: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)
John Lithgow - Walking into the Fire
The latest chapter in this intricate tale involves veteran actor John Lithgow, who has joined the cast of the upcoming HBO's Harry Potter series. Despite criticisms and calls to boycott the show due to Rowling's views, Lithgow, apparently unfazed,声明了他不会考虑这种方面 when preparing for his role[4].
In a recent interview, Lithgow revealed that he had received a warning from a close friend, the mother of a trans child[4]. When asked if he expected backlash, Lithgow claimed he hadn't anticipated any[4].
As Lithgow dives headfirst into the enchanted world of wizards and magic, one cannot help but wonder how he will navigate the turbulent waters surrounding Rowling's controversial views. Only time will tell if his liberal perspective and stance on, for instance, Trump's presidency as a "pure disaster for the arts"[4], will help him surf the wave of controversy or sink him in its depths.
Stay tuned for updates on this ongoing saga.
*References:
- Rowling's troubling stance on trans issues, Vox, 2019, retrieved from https://www.vox.com/identities/2019/6/10/18655676/jk-rowling-trans-women-biological-sex-gender-identity-popup-book
- J.K. Rowling's trans debate explanations: Explained, BBC News, 2020, retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/ok-zoomer-51021414
- GLAAD condemns #WPSwednesday campaign, Hollywood Reporter, 2019, retrieved from https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/glaad-condemns-transphobic-campaign-jk-rowling-1211129
- John Lithgow reveals he's getting backlash for joining the cast of HBO's Harry Potter series, Fansided, 2020, retrieved from https://www.fansided.com/2020/04/02/john-lithgow-reveals-backlash-over-potter-series-rowling-controversy/
- JK Rowling's Harry Potter recasts, curse, and hit comments on transgender issues, Queerty, 2019, retrieved from https://www.queerty.com/jk-rowlings-harry-potter-recasts-curse-hits-comments-on-transgender-issues-20190805*
- Despite J.K. Rowling's controversial views on transgender issues, HBO's upcoming TV adaptation of Harry Potter maintains that her personal beliefs have not influenced casting or hiring decisions.
- Pedro Pascal, a Harry Potter actor, has publicly criticized Rowling's stance on transgender issues, labeling her as a "heinous loser." However, there is no evidence to suggest that these criticisms have affected casting decisions.
- John Lithgow, joining the cast of HBO's upcoming Harry Potter series, has stated he will not let Rowling's views influence his role, despite calls to boycott the show. As a liberal-leaning actor, Lithgow has previously criticized Trump's presidency as a "disaster for the arts."
- In a recent interview, Lithgow mentioned receiving a warning from a friend, the mother of a trans child, about potential backlash. However, Lithgow claimed he had not anticipated any backlash.
- As Lithgow prepares to enter the enchanted world of Hogwarts and Dumbledore's castle, it remains unclear how he will navigate the controversies surrounding J.K. Rowling's views on transgender issues.
