What Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and other Harry Potter stars have said about trans rights
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Earlier this week, Harry Potter author JK Rowling sparked controversy once again by suggesting that she won’t forgive Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson for their support of trans rights. This statement is just the latest in a series of divisive comments and tweets made by Rowling regarding transgender people and their rights.
In a thread on Twitter on April 10th, Rowling expressed her anger following the release of the Cass report, which made recommendations related to restructuring healthcare for trans youth in the UK. She accused celebrities, media, and corporations of being complicit in harm done to trans youth.
When a follower demanded a public apology from Radcliffe and Watson, Rowling responded that she would not forgive them. She criticized celebrities who supported movements eroding women’s rights and advocated for the transitioning of minors, suggesting that their apologies should be directed towards detransitioners and vulnerable women.
Since Rowling’s controversial tweets in June 2020 and her “TERF Wars” essay outlining her concerns about trans equality, various actors from the Harry Potter franchise have shared their views on transgender rights and the backlash against the author.
Daniel Radcliffe, who played the lead role of Harry Potter, has been a vocal ally of the LGBTQ+ community. In 2020, he wrote a blog for LGBTQ+ charity The Trevor Project, stating that transgender women are women and condemning statements that erase their identities. Radcliffe reiterated his support for trans rights in later interviews, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and understanding.
Emma Watson, who portrayed Hermione Granger, has also been a strong advocate for trans rights. She has used her platform to express support for transgender individuals, affirming their identities and calling for respect and love. Watson has been praised for her inclusive stance and has actively supported trans-inclusive organizations.
Rupert Grint, who played Ron Weasley, joined his co-stars in supporting trans rights. He affirmed that he stands with the trans community and believes in the importance of allowing individuals to live authentically without judgment. Grint emphasized that everyone deserves to be treated with love and respect.
Bonnie Wright, known for her role as Ginny Weasley, shared a heartfelt message of support for trans individuals after Rowling’s essay was published. She expressed love and acceptance for all individuals, affirming that transgender women are women. Wright’s message resonated with many fans and highlighted the importance of inclusivity.
Other cast members, including Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom), Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood), Chris Rankin (Percy Weasley), Katie Leung (Cho Chang), Eddie Redmayne (Newt Scamander), Helena Bonham Carter (Bellatrix Lestrange), Ralph Fiennes (Lord Voldemort), and Miriam Margoyles (Professor Sprout) have also shared their views on trans rights.
While some actors have expressed support for Rowling, others have openly criticized her views on transgender issues. The diverse range of perspectives within the Harry Potter cast underscores the ongoing conversations surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and the need for acceptance and understanding.
As the debate continues, it is essential to listen to the voices of those directly impacted by these issues and strive towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or expression.
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