HBO forced to defend J.K. Rowling amid Harry Potter series backlash

JK Rowling has been defended by American production firm HBO after Gen Z launched a pile on the Harry Potter author over her views on transgender issues. 

The company has been inundated with complaints about Rowling serving as an executive producer on the new Harry Potter TV series.

In a statement to Variety, HBO said: 'We are proud to once again tell the story of Harry Potter – the heartwarming books that speak to the power of friendship, resolve and acceptance. 

'JK Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.'

The decision to adapt Rowling's novels has faced criticism from numerous fans, with many calling another adaptation 'unnecessary.'

Others have stated they plan to boycott the project due to the author's comments on trans people.

A social media user said on X: 'This is blatantly stupid. HBO has a track record of producing some of the greatest shows, from The Sopranos to Succession, but for them to appease JK Rowling for her extreme views is only making things worse.'

While another said: 'Very cool how a large corporation just said "yeah we're gonna side with the dangerous transphobe who's actively contributed to creating an atmosphere of violence and stigma against trans people". F*** JK Rowling and HBO, this is why trans people are asking to boycott.' 

Another added: 'My fellow anti-Harry Potter activists: please, don't even hate watch the new version when it comes out.'

In recent years, Rowling has encountered backlash from key cast members of the original series following her remarks about the trans community in 2020, in which she said she believed women were defined by their biological sex and not their gender identity.

She strongly denies that she is transphobic. 

Her connection with the actors - including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint - as well as with Harry Potter fans, has deteriorated as the debate has grown more divisive.

HBO boss Casey Bloys revealed earlier this month that Rowling was 'very, very involved in the process selecting the writer and the director.'

He noted that her statements 'haven't affected the casting or hiring of writers or productions staff' for the show.

A spokesperson for the HBO's parent company added: 'We've been working with J.K. Rowling and in the Harry Potter business for over 20 years' and 'her contribution has been invaluable'. 

The new Harry Potter series, set to premiere 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 dive deep into each of the iconic books that fans have cherished for years,' Bloys said, assuring audiences it will be 'a faithful adaptation'. 

While initial reports suggested each season would cover one book, Bloys has hinted the series could run for '10 consecutive years,' casting doubt on the one-season-per-book format.

An open casting call was announced for young actors to portray Harry, Ron, and Hermione, requiring applicants to be aged 9 to 11 by April 2025.

Recognisable faces are being touted for the adult roles, including Mark Rylance as Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore.

An HBO representative said: 'We appreciate that such a high profile series will draw a lot of rumour and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalise deals.'

Warner Bros. previously addressed J.K. Rowling's statements in 2020, saying: 'The events in the last several weeks have firmed our resolve as a company to confront difficult societal issues. 

'Warner Bros.' position on inclusiveness is well established, and fostering a diverse and inclusive culture has never been more important to our company and to our audiences around the world. 

'We deeply value the work of our storytellers who give so much of themselves in sharing their creations with us all. 

'We recognise our responsibility to foster empathy and advocate understanding of all communities and all people, particularly those we work with and those we reach through our content.'

Meanwhile Jude Law, who portrays a young Dumbledore in Fantastic Beasts, said the franchise's controversies involving Rowling, Johnny Depp, and Ezra Miller, was ''the trifecta of hitting yourself in the face'.

Law shared his hope for another film in the planned five-film series, though Warner Bros. has yet to confirm a fourth installment.

'I'll just wait until I get the phone call,' he told GQ.

'I hope [it happens]. What we all know of that character's journey is wonderful. There's lots more to tell.'