‘Harry Potter’ studio breaks silence on J.K. Rowling’s involvement in series

HBO seemed to have come out in support of J.K. Rowling’s involvement in the Harry Potter series, after the author faced backlash for her comments regarding the transgender community.

In June 2020, Rowling publicly expressed her belief that transgender women are men and transgender men are women, sparking widespread backlash. Stars from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, and Eddie Redmayne, spoke out in support of trans and nonbinary rights.

Moreover, prominent Harry Potter fan communities, MuggleNet and The Leaky Cauldron, criticised Rowling’s views and ended their collaboration with her projects.

Warner Bros. also released a statement emphasising the importance of diversity and inclusion, distancing itself from Rowling without directly addressing her comments or the trans and nonbinary community.

But now, nearly four years later, HBO has expressed its support for Rowling in the midst of developing a new TV adaptation of the Harry Potter book series.

During a press event on Nov. 12, HBO chief Casey Bloys confirmed that Rowling was “very, very involved in the process selecting the writer and the director.” He also stated that her controversial remarks “haven’t affected the casting or hiring of writers or production staff” for the show.

A spokesperson for HBO told Variety that its parent company has “been working with J.K. Rowling and in the Harry Potter business for over 20 years” and added, “her contribution has been invaluable.”

“We are proud to once again tell the story of Harry Potter, the heartwarming books that speak to power of friendship, resolve and acceptance,” the rep added.

“J.K. 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.”