John Lithgow weighs in on Harry Potter backlash
- John Lithgow, an award-winning actor, received backlash after being cast as Albus Dumbledore in HBO's 2023 Harry Potter series announcement.
- The backlash stems from J.K. Rowling's controversial 2020 comments on transgender people and her executive producer role on the series.
- Lithgow expressed confusion over the criticism, noting no complaints arose when he played Roald Dahl despite Dahl's antisemitism controversies.
- He said, "I thought, why is this a factor at all?" and acknowledged the casting was "probably the last major role I'll play."
- Lithgow remains committed to the role despite the backlash, expects to meet Rowling, and emphasizes focus on the series' positive messages.
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56 Articles
John Lithgow Shocked By JK Rowling Backlash After His 'Harry Potter' Reboot Casting
Actor John Lithgow is set to take on one of the most iconic roles in JK Rowling's Harry Potter franchise, and the response to the announcement has left him flummoxed. Lithgow told the UK's Sunday Times that Rowling's virulent transphobia and anti-LGBTQ+ activism has led to backlash over him appearing in the HBO TV reboot of the book series. He told the Times that some of his fans, as well as a close personal friend, urged him to drop out of pl…
Actor John Lithgow refuses to back out of 'Harry Potter' series over JK Rowling's transgender views: 'Oh, heavens no'
Actor John Lithgow said he would not consider backing out of his new "Harry Potter" television show because of author J.K. Rowling's controversies.Lithgow declined an opportunity to speak against celebrated author Rowling during an interview about HBO's new "Harry Potter" series, as Rowling is said to be heavily involved.Rowling has faced significant backlash for her views on transgender issues, particularly regarding men who believe they are wo…
Someone Explain to John Lithgow What JK Rowling Does With Her Money
People have to work. I understand that. Working actors need jobs to stay employed, and jobs in that industry are not always easy to come by, regardless of one's status or "importance." Someone can light the box office on fire... Read more...
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