JK Rowling has revealed her involvement in writing scripts for the upcoming Harry Potter TV series, after online trolls demanded she be removed over her views on transgender issues.
The author, 59, who created the fantasy novels on which the show is based, took to X to rave about the first two episodes after reading them for the first time, confirmed that while she did not pen them herself, she did work closely with the writers.
She said: ‘I read the first two episodes of the forthcoming HBO Harry Potter series and they are SO, SO, SO GOOD!’.
When one follower enquired: ‘So you are not doing the writing for the show?’ she replied: ‘No, but I’ve worked closely with the extremely talented writers’.
Last year HBO defended Rowling after being inundated with complaints about her serving as an executive producer on the new series.
In a statement to Variety, HBO said: ‘We are proud to once again tell the story of Harry Potter – the heartwarming books that speak to the power of friendship, resolve and acceptance.
JK Rowling, 59, has revealed her involvement in writing scripts for the upcoming Harry Potter TV series, after online trolls demanded she be removed over her views on transgender issues
(L-R) Arabella Stanton, Alastair Stout and Dominic McLaughlin, who have been cast as Hermione, Harry and Ron in the HBO show
The author, who created the fantasy series, to confirmed that while she did not pen the scripts herself, she did work closely with the writers
‘JK 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.’
The decision to adapt Rowling’s novels has faced criticism from numerous fans, with many calling another adaptation ‘unnecessary.’
Others have stated they plan to boycott the project due to the author’s comments on trans people.
Earlier this month actor Nick Frost revealed he’d been targeted by trans activists after accepting the role of Hagrid.
The actor, 53, will star as the legendary Hogwarts groundskeeper in the much-anticipated show, which is set to begin filming this summer.
However after sharing the exciting announcement on Instagram, Nick revealed he was forced to turn off the comments on the post due to being swamped with criticism for collaborating with Rowling.
Distancing himself from her trans views, Nick told the Observer: ‘She’s allowed her opinion and I’m allowed mine. They just don’t align in any way, shape of form.’
Rowling has been vocal on the subject of trans people for several years; in 2018, a spokesperson explained that her ‘like’ of a tweet calling trans women ‘men in dresses’ had been a ‘middle-aged moment’.
Last year HBO defended Rowling after being inundated with complaints about her serving as an executive producer on the new series
Earlier this month actor Nick Frost revealed he’d been targeted by trans activists after accepting the role of Hagrid
Distancing himself from Rowling’s trans views, Nick told the Observer: ‘She’s allowed her opinion and I’m allowed mine. They just don’t align in any way, shape of form’
He is set to play the role Hagrid that was made famous by veteran actor Robbie Coltrane in the original film series, before his death in 2022
And following the Supreme Court judgement on April 17, Rowling has consistently referred to transgender women as being ‘men’.
Despite turning off interaction with fans, the publication asked Nick if he believes the debate may overshadow the new series.
He added: ‘ I don’t know but maybe it shouldn’t blow over? We shouldn’t just hope it will go away because if makes it easier maybe we should educate ourselves.’
In his announcement post, the actor posed with a classic copy of the first book in JK Rowling’s series, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
He is set to play the role that was made famous by veteran actor Robbie Coltrane in the original film series, before his death in 2022.
Nick captioned his post: ‘You’re a wizard, Harry!!!
‘Thank you for trusting me with such a loyal, gentle and courageous half-giant like Rubeus Hagrid. Robbie, I promise I won’t let you down.’
In a move that’s sent shockwaves of excitement across the fandom, Hollywood heavyweight John Lithgow has been announced as the new Albus Dumbledore.
Janet McTeer, known for her powerhouse performances on stage and screen, will step into the sharp heels of Professor McGonagall, while rising star Paapa Essiedu takes on the darker, more complicated role of Severus Snape – a part made famous by the late Alan Rickman.
The casting, which was officially announced earlier this month, forms part of HBO’s hotly anticipated reboot of J.K. Rowling‘s seven-book series – a full-scale, decade-long adaptation that promises to stick far more closely to the original storylines than the blockbuster films.
The new series is aims to ‘lead a new generation of fandom’ and hopes to recapture the beloved details Harry Potter fans have enjoyed for 25 years
Fans say this could be the most exciting reboot yet, with many calling the casting ‘perfectly magical’ and praising the diverse, inclusive approach taken by producers.
Showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner said: ‘We are happy to announce the casting of John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, Paapa Essiedu, Nick Frost, Luke Thallon and Paul Whitehouse to play Dumbledore, McGonagall, Snape, Hagrid, Quirrell and Filch.’
Executive producer and director Mark Mylod added: ‘We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life.’
The new series is aims to ‘lead a new generation of fandom’ and hopes to recapture the beloved details Harry Potter fans have enjoyed for 25 years.
