Tom Felton has downplayed the controversy surrounding Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling as he prepares to return to the franchise. The British actor, known for playing Draco Malfoy in the film series, is set to reprise his role on Broadway in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
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At the Tony Awards on Sunday, Felton was asked whether the backlash against Rowling’s comments about transgender people affects his work in the franchise.
He told Variety, “No, I can’t say it does. I’m not really that attuned to it.”
Felton added, “If anything, I remind myself that I’ve been lucky to travel the world, and I haven’t seen anything bring people together more than Potter, and she’s responsible for that, so I’m incredibly grateful.”
The Original Trio Stay Off
Many Harry Potter actors, including the original trio, Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, have distanced themselves from J.K. Rowling and her perceived anti-trans views over the years.
Felton wasn’t the only star asked about Rowling this past weekend. In an interview with The Observer, Nick Frost revealed that trans-rights supporters criticized him on social media after he signed on to play Hagrid in the upcoming TV series.
He said, “She’s allowed her opinion and I’m allowed mine; they just don’t align in any way, shape, or form.”
When asked if the controversy might overshadow the series, Frost replied, “I don’t know. But maybe it shouldn’t blow over? We shouldn’t just hope it will go away, because that makes it easier. Maybe we should educate ourselves.”
JK Rowling’s Views
Rowling’s views on transgender issues have sparked debates about freedom of speech, cancel culture, and divisions within feminist communities. Some people have praised her for speaking out, while others have condemned her for using potentially harmful language and opposing transgender rights.
She has said that people have sent her death threats in response to her opinions. Critics argue that her statements could damage the image of the Harry Potter series and its LGBTQ+ characters.
