'Harry Potter' Director Chris Columbus Condemns JK Rowling’s Views on Transgender Rights as “Very Sad”

Chris Columbus, acclaimed director of the first two Harry Potter films, has become the latest high-profile figure to publicly oppose JK Rowling’s recent comments and activism regarding transgender rights, labeling her views as “very sad” in a candid interview published this week . The director’s statements come as Rowling continues to face widespread criticism for her public positions on gender identity, particularly following the UK Supreme Court’s April ruling that excluded transgender women from the legal definition of “woman” under the Equality Act—a decision Rowling praised on social media .

In recent years, Rowling, who remains an executive producer on HBO’s forthcoming decade-long Harry Potter series, has repeatedly expressed views that many advocacy groups and LGBTQ+ organizations have condemned as transphobic . While Rowling has denied accusations of transphobia, her comments—such as questioning the medical use of hormones in gender transitions and supporting legal efforts that have restricted the rights of transgender women—have sparked significant backlash from fans, actors, and LGBTQ+ communities .

Asked by Variety about Rowling’s statements, Columbus said, “I certainly don’t agree with what she’s talking about. But it’s just sad, it’s very sad” . He emphasized the importance of separating the artist from the art, but made clear that Rowling’s personal beliefs do not align with his own . Columbus also confirmed he would not be returning to the franchise for the upcoming TV adaptation, stating, “I’ve done it, you saw my version. There’s nothing left for me to do in the world of Potter” .

Columbus’ comments follow similar statements from actors Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint—who played Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley respectively—each of whom has expressed support for transgender people and disavowed Rowling’s positions . Their collective stance has been widely praised by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups for reinforcing the message that inclusivity and acceptance are core values for the Harry Potter fan community .

After the Supreme Court ruling in the UK, bookstores in San Francisco and other cities responded by pulling Harry Potter books from their shelves, with several citing solidarity with transgender communities as their motivation . LGBTQ+ organizations worldwide have condemned both the legal decision and Rowling’s support of it, warning of the chilling effect such rulings and rhetoric can have on the safety and dignity of transgender people .

The ongoing dispute over Rowling’s views has reignited debate about the impact that public figures and media franchises have on public attitudes towards transgender people. Many fans and advocacy groups argue that the Harry Potter series, with its central themes of acceptance and resistance to bigotry, has inspired generations of LGBTQ+ readers and viewers to embrace their identities and advocate for equality .

“Transgender young people need to see themselves represented and affirmed, not questioned or excluded by the voices they once admired,” said a spokesperson for a leading LGBTQ+ advocacy organization . The response from Columbus and other Harry Potter alumni is seen by many as an important act of solidarity—one that affirms the franchise’s most devoted fans, many of whom identify as transgender or non-binary.

As HBO prepares to launch its ambitious, decade-long Harry Potter adaptation, the controversy surrounding Rowling’s views continues to loom over the project . Although Rowling remains attached as an executive producer, Columbus’ explicit refusal to participate—alongside the public distancing by key cast members—signals a deepening divide over the legacy and future of one of the world’s most beloved fantasy universes .

For LGBTQ+ fans, the hope is that the new generation of storytellers involved in the series will prioritize inclusivity and representation, ensuring that the magical world of Harry Potter remains a safe and welcoming space for all.