HBO's rebooted "Harry Potter" series continues to generate buzz, and John Lithgow, the actor cast as Dumbledore, recently revisited the controversy surrounding author J.K. Rowling's stance on transgender issues. In an interview with "The New Yorker Radio Hour," Lithgow stated that despite disagreeing with some of Rowling's views, he decided to take on the role, believing some of her statements have been misrepresented.
Discussing his reasons for joining the project, Lithgow explained that the work itself was appealing and offered long-term opportunities.
"There are many attractive things about this job, and it provides me with stable work security in my later years. You certainly don't ignore these issues," Lithgow further noted. "The accusations of prejudice against Rowling came after everything had already begun. I had already agreed to perform... Some people advised me to withdraw, but I don't intend to do so."
Lithgow emphasized that he doesn't fully endorse Rowling's statements but still believes there's room for different interpretations of the controversy. "The reasons supporting me taking this role are far stronger than the reasons to protest Rowling's actions," he said. "I certainly disagree with many of her views, many of which I believe have been distorted and misunderstood, and she has paid a price for it, continuing to stand by her position."
Nevertheless, Lithgow admitted his disappointment with Rowling's statements on social media, while also stressing that Rowling herself was not the one who convinced him to take the role.
"I haven't met her," Lithgow said. "Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod are an excellent team, and Francesca convinced me; she was the biggest reason I took this role."
"In the world of 'Harry Potter,' there is no transphobic content to be seen," Lithgow stated. "She wrote stories about kindness and inclusion, and Dumbledore is a very beautiful character."
The HBO reboot of the "Harry Potter" series is reportedly eyeing a Christmas premiere this year. Lithgow's portrayal of Dumbledore has already made its debut in the trailer, once again sparking fan discussion.