Harry Potter: JK Rowling hits out at TV reboot boycott

Harry Potter author JK Rowling has issued a response to those who have threatened to boycott the latest TV adaptation of her works.

It’s a hard thing to miss but if you hadn’t heard, HBO is working on a TV remake of Rowling’s Harry Potter books. The “decade-long” project is set to feature an all-new cast and will reportedly dedicate one season to each book. Casting rumours are already rife, and it’s thought that one original cast member may return to reprise a new role. Many previous fans of the Wizarding World franchise are already saying that they’ll boycott the series due to Rowling’s involvement, prompting the author to issue a response.

Take a look at the reveal trailer for the TV series below.

Rowling has come under fire in recent years for her transphobic comments. It’s something that’s left many Harry Potter fans feeling alienated and betrayed, altering their feelings towards a franchise they once loved. Back in February, we saw many choose to boycott Hogwarts Legacy. Now, fans are saying they’ll do the same for the series but it’s not something that seems to have bothered Rowling who issued a rather blunt response.

“Dreadful news, which I feel duty bound to share,” Rowling began on Twitter. “Activists in my mentions are trying to organise yet another boycott of my work, this time of the Harry Potter TV show. As forewarned is forearmed, I’ve taken the precaution of laying in a large stock of champagne.” Yikes.

Seemingly, Rowling is predicting great success for the series. It is true that despite the boycotts, Hogwarts Legacy went on to become a major commercial success - exceeding expected profits by 256% - and it’s yet to release on a further three platforms. It will release on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One on 5 May, followed by Nintendo Switch on 25 July. It awaits to be seen if the TV series will reach the same heights.