The author, 60, posted on X on Monday, September 29, responding to Watson's remarks on a podcast. Watson, 35, said that although they differ on transgender rights, she can still feel love and gratitude toward Rowling and acknowledge their shared history.
Rowling pushed back strongly, labeling Watson "ignorant" and privileged. She also called out Daniel Radcliffe by name, pointing to both actors as examples of Potter stars who have publicly opposed her stance.
The following day, on Tuesday, September 30, Rowling reacted to a post suggesting the Harry Potter cast had collectively betrayed her. She replied that while some former child actors have criticized her, others remain supportive. "I have no wish to point my more rabid detractors at any individual, so I will just say not all Potter kids. There are some who have been staunch throughout and I have nothing but deep affection for them," she wrote.
Watson's original remarks were made during an interview on Jay Shetty's On Purpose podcast, published on September 24. The actress reflected on her relationship with Rowling, saying there is no version of her life where she could cancel the author entirely. Watson expressed regret that a genuine conversation with Rowling has never been possible but indicated she would be open to dialogue in the future.
In her own comments on X, Rowling said she respects that Watson and Radcliffe embrace gender identity ideology and emphasized that such beliefs are legally protected. However, she accused them of assuming the role of spokespersons for her fictional world long after their involvement in the films ended.
Rowling has faced intense backlash since 2020 for her public views on transgender issues, with many LGBTQ+ advocates and Potter actors speaking out against her. Watson previously made a veiled reference to the controversy during the 2022 BAFTA Awards, telling the audience she was there for "all of the witches." Rowling later described that moment as a turning point, recalling that Watson sent a private note of sympathy which she felt was undermined by the actress's public comments.
The original Harry Potter films concluded in 2011, and Rowling later penned the Fantastic Beasts prequel series. A new television adaptation of the Potter books and fresh audiobook recordings are currently in production.
