J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, has faced criticism for her comments about the transgender community. Because of this, discussions about Harry Potter and the Wizarding World often turn to the controversy surrounding her views. John Lithgow, a well-known actor who will play Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter TV series (which features many younger actors), recently shared that he almost didn’t take the role because of Rowling’s statements. However, he’s since offered some additional thoughts that suggest a more nuanced perspective.
In an interview with The New York Times, John Lithgow shared that he knew the topic of J.K. Rowling would likely follow him for the rest of his career, a consequence he accepted. He now confirms he still hasn’t met Rowling, but believes some of her public statements have been taken out of context or inaccurately portrayed.
While appearing on The New Yorker Radio Hour, Lithgow detailed:
Honestly, the job seemed perfect – really appealing work with the promise of long-term security, something you don’t just dismiss. The controversy surrounding Rowling’s alleged biases? That surfaced after I’d already committed. I’d already given my word, and a lot of people advised me to back out, but I wasn’t about to do that. I felt I’d made a commitment and needed to see it through.
In the end, Lithgow explained that he felt the benefits of participating outweighed his objections to J.K. Rowling’s statements and actions. While he disagrees with many of her views – believing some have been taken out of context or misconstrued – and acknowledges she’s repeatedly defended them even when it’s caused controversy, he still chose to proceed with the project.
Lithgow explained he’s approaching the role despite past controversies by focusing on the character of Dumbledore and the talented team working on the HBO series. He specifically credited Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod’s strong working relationship as a key factor in his decision, saying Gardiner was instrumental in convincing him to take the part.
Earlier this year, actor Lithgow stated he didn’t detect any of J.K. Rowling’s personal opinions within her books. He shared this while speaking at the Rotterdam Film Festival, explaining that…
I haven’t met J.K. Rowling, and she isn’t involved in this project. However, the people I’m working with are fantastic. It bothers me when people criticize my involvement, especially considering the themes of the Harry Potter books. There’s absolutely no hint of transphobia in the original stories – she created a story about kindness and acceptance. Playing Dumbledore is a wonderful opportunity, so it was a difficult choice. I was really upset that some people wanted me to quit, but I decided to stay on the project.
Lithgow’s costar in Harry Potter, Nick Frost, hasn’t minced words about how he feels about Rowling.
The actor who played Hagrid explained to The Observer last summer that while everyone is entitled to their own opinion, his differed greatly from another person’s. He believes it’s important to address disagreements head-on, rather than hoping they’ll simply disappear, and suggested taking the time to learn more about differing viewpoints.
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2026-04-03 23:06