Actor John Lithgow, cast as Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming series based on the Harry Potter universe, publicly distanced himself from J.K. Rowling's views, calling them contradictory to the spirit of the saga and unacceptable in modern society.
"It looks ironic and wrong"
In response to a question about how he agreed to participate in the project amid the writer's controversial statements about transgender people, John Lithgow emphasized that he takes the issue very seriously.
According to the actor, J.K. Rowling created a unique literary world that has taught readers acceptance, compassion, and the struggle between good and evil for decades. That is why, in Lithgow's view, her current position appears particularly contradictory.
"These stories of kindness, acceptance, and standing against cruelty have become part of the public consciousness. Given this, it seems ironic and unacceptable to me that she now holds such views," the actor stated.
Rowling is not involved in the production of the series
John Lithgow also clarified that he is not personally acquainted with the writer and forms his opinion based on public statements. He noted that J.K. Rowling is not involved in the creation of the new series.
According to him, the adaptation is being handled by a new team working on a large-scale eight-year television project, and it is with these people that the actor is interested in collaborating.
When to expect the new "Harry Potter"
HBO management previously reported that the most likely release date for the series is the first half of 2027. The project is conceived as a detailed adaptation of the book series, with each novel dedicated to a separate season.
