HBO defends JK Rowling’s ‘right to express personal views’ after fans complain over author’s role on Harry Potter TV series

JK Rowling has been defended by TV chiefs after her role in a new Harry Potter series drew criticism for her views on transgender issues.

The American production company HBO is inundated with complaints about the author who serves as executive producer of the series.

A statement said: ‘We are proud to once again tell the story of Harry Potter – the heartwarming books that speak of the power of friendship, determination and acceptance. JK Rowling has the right to express her personal opinions.

“We remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.”

While some fans seemed unenthusiastic at the prospect of a TV series and found another adaptation “unnecessary”, others say they will boycott it over Ms Rowling’s comments about transgender people.

In 2020, she said she believed women are defined by their biological sex and not their gender identity.

One social media user wrote on X, formerly Twitter: “This is downright stupid. HBO has a track record of producing some of the best shows, from The Sopranos to Succession, but appeasing JK Rowling for her extreme views will only make the situation worse.”

Another wrote: ‘My fellow anti-Harry Potter activists: please don’t hate watching the new version when it comes out.’

HBO chief executive Casey Bloys (pictured) revealed this month that Rowling was ‘very, very involved in the process of selecting the writer and director’

In recent years, Ms. Rowling has been banned from the original films by key cast members for her comments about the trans community.

Her relationship with the actors – including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint – and with fans has deteriorated as the debate has become more divisive.

HBO CEO Casey Bloys revealed this month that Rowling was “very, very involved in the process of selecting the writer and director.”

He noted that her statements “did not affect the casting or hiring of writers or production staff” for the show.

A spokesperson for Warner Bros, HBO’s parent company, said: ‘We have worked with JK Rowling and in the Harry Potter business for more than twenty years and her contribution has been invaluable.’

The new Harry Potter series, premiering in 2026, promises a deeper exploration of the wizarding world. Screenwriter Francesca Gardiner, known for her work on Succession, will serve as showrunner, with Mark Mylod directing multiple episodes and also executive producing.

“This new Max Original series will delve deep into each of the iconic books,” Mr. Bloys said, assuring audiences that it will be “a faithful adaptation.”

While initial reports suggested that each season would span one book, Mr Bloys has hinted that the series could last for ‘ten consecutive years’.

Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, JK Rowling and Rupert Grint at the premiere of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 in November 2010

An open casting call was announced for young actors to play Harry, Ron and Hermione, with applicants required to be between 9 and 11 years old by April 2025. Recognizable faces are being touted for the adult roles, including Mark Rylance as Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore.

Warner Bros, which made the original eight Harry Potter films and the Fantastic Beasts spin-offs, previously addressed JK Rowling’s statements in 2020, saying: ‘Promoting a diverse and inclusive culture has never been more important for our company and for our audiences around the world. world.

“We really appreciate the work of our storytellers, who give so much of themselves by sharing their creations with all of us.

“We recognize our responsibility to promote empathy and advocate understanding for all communities and all people, especially those we work with and those we reach through our content.”