J.K. Rowling won't forgive Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson for speaking out against her transgender comments.

Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson in Harry Potter series

J.K. Rowling, the renowned yet often controversial author of the Harry Potter series, has once again sparked tensions with franchise stars Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson over transgender rights.

This latest conflict arose after Rowling posted on X (formerly Twitter) about a recent independent review on the medical evidence surrounding transitioning for minors. Her stance, which aligns with concerns about children undergoing medical transitioning, provoked mixed reactions online.

One follower on X suggested that Radcliffe and Watson, who previously expressed support for trans rights, might one day apologize to Rowling. Rowling’s response was dismissive: “Celebs who cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women's hard-won rights… can save their apologies for traumatised detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single-sex spaces.”

Representatives for Radcliffe and Watson have yet to respond to this latest exchange. However, this public disagreement follows a long-standing rift. In 2020, Rowling published an essay criticizing transgender activism, arguing it undermines women as a political and biological class.

In response, Radcliffe wrote a powerful essay for the Trevor Project, where he declared, “Transgender women are women.” He added that any statements to the contrary erase the dignity and identity of transgender people.

Emma Watson also responded via social media, though without directly mentioning Rowling. She wrote, “Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned.” Her post affirmed her respect and love for her transgender followers, making her position clear.

Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint reuniting for 'Harry Potter' special

Rowling’s stance has polarized fans, with several other Harry Potter actors speaking out. Rupert Grint, who portrayed Ron Weasley, publicly supported the transgender community, saying, “Trans women are women. Trans men are men. We should all be entitled to live with love and without judgment.” He later called Rowling his “auntie” but acknowledged their differences, illustrating the complexity of their relationship.

Jason Isaacs (Lucius Malfoy), the late Robbie Coltrane (Hagrid), Harry Melling (Dudley Dursley), and Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood) also weighed in. While some, like Lynch, initially defended Rowling, they later clarified their support for trans rights as they engaged more with the community’s concerns.

LGBTQ advocates, including GLAAD President Sarah Kate Ellis, have condemned Rowling’s remarks as dangerous and misinformed. Ellis emphasized that Rowling’s comments contradict medical and psychological experts and dismiss the lived experiences of transgender people.

Radcliffe, Watson, and Grint’s support for trans rights reflects a larger shift within the entertainment industry, as more celebrities stand with marginalized communities. Although Rowling remains steadfast in her views, defending what she sees as a protection of women’s rights, the backlash from former colleagues and fans alike highlights the growing divide over these issues.

The ongoing debate over transgender rights has left a noticeable impact on Rowling’s legacy. While some fans continue to support her, others are re-evaluating their relationship with the Harry Potter series. As Rowling’s opinions continue to shape public discourse, they also raise questions about the intersections of art, personal beliefs, and public influence.