JK Rowling has reignited her public feud with Emma Watson, accusing the actress of being “ignorant of how ignorant she is” after recent remarks about their disagreement on transgender rights.
Harry Potter Stars’ Distance from Author
Watson, alongside Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint, has openly supported transgender people in recent years. The three actors have often distanced themselves from Rowling when asked about her views.
Rowling Denies Transphobia Claims
The author has previously been accused of transphobia, which she strongly denies. She insists her concerns are centred on women’s rights and safeguarding, not prejudice.
Watson Seeks Respect Across Divides
On Jay Shetty’s podcast, Watson expressed a hope for compassion in the face of differences. “I hope people who don’t agree with my opinion will love me, and I hope I can keep loving people with whom I don’t necessarily share the same opinion,” she said.
Rowling Issues Lengthy Online Post
In a 600-word statement on X, Rowling criticised Watson’s stance. She claimed the actress lacked real-world perspective, writing: “Emma has so little experience of real life she’s ignorant of how ignorant she is.”
Life Experience Compared
Rowling contrasted her early struggles with Watson’s fame, saying: “I lived in poverty while writing the book that made Emma famous. I understand from my own life experience what the trashing of women’s rights… means to women and girls without her privileges.”
Protectiveness Towards Potter Stars
The author admitted she had once felt protective of the Harry Potter cast, whom she had known since their childhood. However, she said there was a moment when her relationship with Watson shifted.
Bafta Speech Fallout
Rowling cited Watson’s 2022 Bafta speech, in which the actress said, “I’m here for all the witches.” The remark was widely seen as a veiled criticism of Rowling’s stance on gender.
Handwritten Note Delivered
The author claimed Watson later sent a handwritten note apologising, delivered by another person. Rowling said this came at a time when online abuse directed at her was at its peak.
Author Felt Betrayed
Despite the note, Rowling suggested Watson’s public comments had worsened the threats she faced, accusing the actress of “pouring more petrol on the flames.”
Watson’s Longstanding Position
The actress has consistently expressed her support for trans rights. In 2020, she tweeted: “I want my trans followers to know that I and so many other people around the world see you, respect you and love you for who you are.”
Ongoing Public Divide
Watson’s comments align with those of Radcliffe and Grint, who have also publicly backed trans people, creating a clear divide between Rowling and the franchise’s leading stars.
A Debate Overshadowing Harry Potter
The clash highlights how the debate over gender identity continues to impact the Harry Potter legacy, with Rowling and her former cast members often at odds.
Rowling Remains Defiant
Despite criticism, Rowling has stood firm on her views.
She continues to argue that defending women’s rights should not be equated with transphobia, a stance that keeps her at the centre of public controversy.
