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It’s been almost thirty years since unknown British author J.K. Rowling changed the literary world with the release of her first novel, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The book tells the story of Harry Potter, a young boy who was raised by his neglectful aunt and uncle.
On his eleventh birthday, Harry learns that he is actually a wizard, and he heads off to learn magic at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Little does Harry know that he is actually one of the most famous wizards in existence. He is the only one to survive an attack by the evil Lord Voldemort, who everyone thinks is dead, but who is hiding out, determined to regain his strength and power.
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In the end, there were a total of seven Harry Potter books, a wildly successful film franchise, popular spinoffs, and even Wizarding World lands dedicated to the series and Universal Studios theme parks.
J.K. Rowling was also the first author to reach billionaire status, thanks to her boy wizard series. She was flying high, and it appeared that nothing could knock her off of the literary pedestal she was on.
Unfortunately, in just a few short years, Ms. Rowling has gone from one of the most beloved authors on the planet to one of the most controversial and divisive.
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Rowling has been very outspoken in her anti-transgender beliefs. Despite the backlash that she has received, she has continued to insult and speak out against the trans community. She has even said that she would “happily” go to jail for her belief that trans people are mentally unstable.
Because of her views, many of Ms. Rowling’s relationships with the stars of the Harry Potter franchise have completely fallen apart. She is no longer speaking to Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter), Emma Watson (Hermione Granger), or Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley). They have all voiced their support for the trans community.
Most recently, Ms. Rowling got into it with Doctor Who star David Tennant. The beloved actor received a GLAAD award and has been vocal in his support for the LGBTQ+ community. And he has been outspoken against the people and politicians Ms. Rowling supports.
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Recently, Mr. Tennant attended the Planet Comicon Kansas City, and he was asked about whether he would appear in the upcoming Harry Potter series that is expected to premiere on Max (formerly HBO) in 2026. Mr. Tennant originally played Voldemort loyalist Barty Crouch Jr. in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005).
Mr. Tennant is known for being a bit cheeky, and he responded with a bit of humor and a lot of honesty.
“I mean, they’re great stories,” the Good Omens actor responded, adding: “I feel like my contribution has probably been made.”
Continuing, Tennant joked: “I’m told there’s an executive producer who doesn’t love me on that show.”
The crowd erupted into laughter and applause, with Tennant adding: “I was told recently!”
David told off J.K Rowling very very well https://t.co/nkyZVk81PL pic.twitter.com/O7O80W8lHV
— 𝐀𝐲𝐥𝐢𝐧🍁 (@GoodOmensDT) March 22, 2025
David Tennant panel part 3 #DavidTennant #kansascitycomicon pic.twitter.com/qCqgtNN4e2
— CouragetheCowardly (@Carolin37132118) March 22, 2025
Since the new Harry Potter series was announced in 2023, there has been much controversy surrounding it and J.K. Rowling’s involvement in it. HBO has remained relatively quiet on the matter; however, they did confirm that the author would be serving as an executive producer. The studio also said that she has the right to express her views and that the show will “benefit” from her involvement.
Are you excited about the new Harry Potter series? Which original actors would you like to see return? Do you think J.K. Rowling should be involved? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!