Kaylah Walton
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The upcoming ‘Harry Potter’ series, set to launch in late 2026 or early 2027, has sparked significant backlash, particularly after the announcement that Paapa Essiedu will portray Severus Snape. Much of the outrage stems from Essiedu’s skin color, as well as his stance on the trans community, which has drawn attention given creator J.K. Rowling’s views. Actors like Eddie Redmayne and Pedro Pascal, who have publicly supported LGBTQ+ rights alongside Essiedu, have faced scrutiny from Rowling, who has made her feelings known in a recent post on X, formerly Twitter.
“If I had the ability, I wouldn’t dismiss an actor from their role,” she stated. “I oppose the idea of removing people’s jobs for holding legally protected beliefs that differ from mine.”
HBO has committed to ensuring that they will not incorporate any “anti-trans rhetoric” that Rowling might have imposed on the storyline: “Our focus is what will be depicted on screen. The essence of the Harry Potter narrative is one of positivity and acceptance, revolving around love and self-acceptance. That remains our core priority,” as stated in Deadline.
Pedro Pascal’s Strong Words for JK Rowling: “Despicable Loser”
The actor has expressed a firm criticism of Rowling due to his advocacy for trans rights, which is personal for him as his sister Lux is part of the community. He described her behavior as “horrible, disgusting, and despicable” after her recent comments.
Rowling expressed satisfaction when the UK authorized changes stating that the terms ‘woman’ and ‘sex’ in the Equality Act 2010 are defined as biological.
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