Harry Potter exec shuts down question over JK Rowling anti-trans controversy

It’s happening - Harry Potter is getting a rebooted TV series, despite the controversy that has surrounded the franchise in recent years.

The author of Harry Potter, J.K. Rowling, has been repeatedly criticised for making harmful remarks about the trans community. This has prompted some Harry Potter stars like Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson to speak up in support of trans people, and many longtime fans of the franchise chose to boycott the recent Wizarding World RPG Hogwarts Legacy, as Rowling profits from its sales despite not being directly involved in its development.

Take a look at the trailer for the Harry Potter TV series below.

It’s been confirmed that Rowling will serve as an executive producer on the upcoming TV series for Max (formerly known as HBO Max), and as a result, many have expressed that they’ll be avoiding it so not to support her. However, as Variety reports, the chief content officer of HBO and Max, Casey Bloys, avoided directly addressing the author’s views when asked during a press Q&A session if he thinks that the producers may struggle to cast the series as a result of the controversy.

“No, I don’t think this is the forum,” said Bloys. “That’s a very online conversation, very nuanced and complicated and not something we’re going to get into.”

He continued: “Our priority is what’s on the screen. Obviously, the Harry Potter story is incredibly affirmative and positive and about love and self-acceptance. That’s our priority - what’s on screen.”

Bloys reaffirmed that Rowling will be directly involved with the show, and added that “her insights are going to be helpful”.

“The TV show is new and we’re excited about that, but, remember, we’ve been in the Potter business for 20 years. This is not a new decision for us, we’re very comfortable being in the Potter business.”

We don’t currently know when the new Harry Potter series is set to release, but it’s set to be a “decade-long” project, so we’re going to be hearing about it for many, many years to come.