Actor Sebastian Croft has had to address his involvement with Hogwarts Legacy following shocked statements from fans who perceive this career choice to undermine his LGBT activism.
Croft plays Ben Hope in Netflix's Heartstopper, which is based on a graphic novel of the same name written by Alice Oseman. The show was praised for its portrayal of LGBT youth, inclusive casting choices and wholesome storyline. Croft has also danced in the faces of homophobic protestors at London's Pride parade, expressed his support for LGBT individuals and championed two charities that assist LGBT refugees. As such, the announcement that he is voicing the Hogwarts Legacy protagonist was not met with complete congratulations.
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Avalanche Software clarified that Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling, who frequently advocates anti-transgender opinions on social media and in publications, is "not involved in the creation of the game." Nevertheless, the developer did collaborate "closely with her team on all aspects of the game" and a fair few fans see the purchase of the RPG as an implicit approval of Rowling's views.
"I was cast in this project over three years ago, back when all Harry Potter was to me, was the magical world I grew up with," said Croft in a Tweet. "This was long before I was aware of J. K. Rowling's views. I believe wholeheartedly that trans women are women and trans men are men."
Rowling's first public objection towards transgender women was her Tweet posted in 2020 mocking the use of the phrase "people who menstruate" rather than the word "women."
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"I know far more now than I did three years ago, and hope to learn far more in the next three. I’m really sorry to anyone hurt by this announcement. There is no LGB without the T," the actor apologised.
Again, the sentiment is split. Some are content with Croft's statement whereas others are still displeased, asking about his stance on the accusations of antisemitism in Hogwarts Legacy and calling for him to donate his salary to charity.
Topics: Harry Potter, Hogwarts Legacy