Is J.K. Rowling’s controversy regarding trans people still the cause?
The highly-anticipated Harry Potter cast reunion, Return to Hogwarts, is coming up and fans couldn’t be more thrilled. We have seen the trailer of the cast interacting with each other and almost all of them, who had starred across the eight films had made appearances. This included Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Ralph Fiennes, Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltran, Tom Felton, Imelda Staunton, James and Oliver Phelps, Gary Oldman, Matthew Lewis, Bonnie Wright, and Evanna Lynch.
However, the creator J.K. Rowling’s absence was very visible, and it was surprising to not see the person who impacted multiple generations with her stories, not attend the reunion. Let’s find out why.
Controversy, or…?
The first reason for J.K. Rowling’s absence was summed up to the controversy she landed herself in after her comments on trans issues. The author came across as transphobic when she retweeted an online article whose headline read: ‘Opinion: Creating a more equal post-COVID-19 world for people who menstruate.’ Rowling found it ridiculous that they used the term “people who menstruate” instead of “women.” She went on to tweet that she wasn’t being hateful but was still criticized heavily for it.
Coming back to the reunion, EW reported that an invitation was sent to J.K Rowling as well, but she and her team declined it, stating that archival footage will be enough. Her team also stated that the ensuing controversy was not a reason for this.
Probably for the best
Regardless what the reason is, it is a good thing that J.K. Rowling wasn’t part of the reunion, as she is a polarizing figure, and her involvement can bring criticism to the special show, which is all about the actors and the fans taking a nostalgic trip to Hogwarts.
Return to Hogwarts, debuts on HBO Max on New Year’s Day.
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