HBO backs inclusion of Harry Potter author in show based on book series amid accusations of transphobia

HBO has defended its decision to collaborate with author J.K. Rowling on its upcoming Harry Potter television series after being questioned about her women's rights activism, which has enraged the transgender community and its allies. Rowling, a British liberal author, has been a vocal supporter of female-only spaces and has experienced significant criticism as a result. The author has stood firm in the face of yearslong backlash, reiterating her stance that she does not support trans-identifying men who believe they are women invading women's spaces.

In a statement to Variety, HBO referred to her more than two decades of service to the network as "invaluable" and reaffirmed its intention to work with Rowling to turn her award-winning book series into a television series.

"We are proud to once again tell the story of Harry Potter - the heartwarming books that speak to power of friendship, resolve and acceptance," the statement said. "J.K. 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."

At a press event on November 12, Variety reported that HBO chief Casey Bloys shared a similar opinion, stating that Rowling was "very, very involved in the process selecting the writer and the director" and that her position on transgender issues "haven't affected the casting or hiring of writers or productions staff" for the Harry Potter series, which is scheduled to premiere on HBO in 2026, per the Daily Wire.

Calls to "cancel" Rowling first began in 2020 after she issued a post on X, formerly Twitter, that read: "If sex isn't real, there's no same-sex attraction. If sex isn't real, the lived reality of women globally is erased. I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives. It isn't hate to speak the truth."

Since then, she has been vocal about her views and has posted on the subject often, particularly the issue surrounding trans-identifying men participating in women's sports. Her pro-women stance has resulted in calls for deadly violence to be carried out against the author.