JK Rowling lashes out at Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson: 'Harry Potter' author says they 'can save their apologies’

Renowned author JK Rowling has once again stirred controversy with her remarks on transgender rights, this time taking aim at former Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson. Rowling's comments come amidst a heated debate over transgender issues, sparked by a recent report commissioned by the NHS critiquing gender care standards.

The catalyst for Rowling's latest comments was a recent report commissioned by the NHS, which raised concerns about the standards of care for gender-variant youth. Dr Hilary Cass, leading the review, emphasised the need for more research into the long-term effects of gender care treatments, including puberty blockers.

Rowling's Response To NHS Report

Rowling took to social media to express her views, responding to a follower's suggestion that Radcliffe and Watson might apologize for their public support of transgender rights.


Rowling firmly stated, "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.”

'Harry Potter' Cast Members' Reactions

This stance echoes Rowling's longstanding opposition to certain aspects of the trans rights movement. Her comments reignited a rift that emerged in 2020 when Radcliffe and Watson publicly voiced their support for transgender individuals. Radcliffe asserted that "Transgender women are women," while Watson affirmed that "Trans people are who they say they are."

The controversy surrounding Rowling's views has also affected her relationship with Warner Bros., the studio behind the Harry Potter films. Despite plans for a reboot of the saga as a TV series, Rowling's outspoken opinions have strained the partnership.

Radcliffe and Watson, along with other Harry Potter cast members, have distanced themselves from Rowling's remarks. Radcliffe apologized to those affected by Rowling's statements, while Watson emphasized the importance of respecting trans people's identities.

As the debate continues, Rowling's firm stance raises questions about the future of her relationships with her former stars and the impact on the magical world they once shared.