John Lithgow criticizes the ongoing war on empathy. [Image Source: CONTENTSTACK]
John Lithgow has publicly condemned what he describes as a “war on empathy” while responding to controversy surrounding his role as Albus Dumbledore in the new HBO Max Harry Potter series, which has reignited debates over J.K. Rowling’s anti-transgender statements. Lithgow spoke during the 55th International Film Festival Rotterdam, reflecting on the complexities of accepting this role at age 80 and the ongoing tensions linked to Rowling’s views.
John Lithgow Discusses Unconventional Casting Choice and Series Commitment
At IFFR, Lithgow revealed the surreal nature of signing an eight-year contract to portray Dumbledore in the extended TV adaptation. He called the lengthy commitment “insane,” considering his age, but expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with the production team behind the new series. This casting has drawn attention because Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter canon, has become a polarizing figure following her outspoken stance against transgender rights.
Actor Reflects on Rowling’s Controversial Views and Harry Potter’s Themes
Addressing how he reconciled taking on the role despite Rowling’s reputation, Lithgow emphasized the positive messages within the Harry Potter stories. He said,
“I take the subject and the issue extremely seriously. J.K. Rowling has created this amazing canon for young people, young kids’ literature that has jumped into the consciousness of society. Young and old people love Harry Potter and the Harry Potter stories. It’s so much about acceptance. It’s about good versus evil. It’s about kindness versus cruelty. It’s deeply felt.”
Lithgow acknowledged the paradox of Rowling’s expressed viewpoints, stating,
“I find it ironic and somewhat inexplicable that Rowling has expressed such views,”
while clarifying he has never met the author and that she is not involved in this production.
Support for the New Series Production Team Amid Fan Backlash
Lithgow praised the creative team behind the HBO Max adaptation, calling them “remarkable” and expressing a genuine desire to work with them. Despite criticism and calls for him to quit the role, he stood firm, saying:
Image of: John Lithgow
“Of course, it upsets me when people are vehemently opposed to my having anything to do with this. But if you read through the Harry Potter canon, you see absolutely no trace of transphobic sensibility. She has written this great meditation on kindness and empathy and acceptance, which is why it’s so strange to me.”
Actor’s Commitment to the Character Amidst Discomfort and Criticism
Lithgow described the role of Dumbledore as complex and meaningful, revealing that the depth of the character became clearer through the production team’s vision. He said the backlash made him uncomfortable and unhappy but reaffirmed his decision to stay with the project:
“Dumbledore is a beautiful role. There’s so much more to it than I even realized, mainly because of these people who are creating the series. So it was a hard decision on the basis of that [controversy], and it made me very uncomfortable and unhappy that people were actively insisting that I walk away from this job. But I chose not to do that.”
Broader Reflection on Empathy in Politics and Society
In addition to discussing the series and related controversies, Lithgow spoke about wider political and social issues. He described the current climate as a “war on empathy” and declared his support for compassion and understanding in these turbulent times:
“Now, we’re in the midst of a war on empathy, and I’m on the side of empathy.”
Lithgow’s remarks highlight the tension between cultural art and political discourse, illustrating how public figures negotiate their roles within contentious environments. His stance underscores a commitment to empathy and kindness as fundamental values both in storytelling and public life, signaling ongoing debates about responsibility, representation, and art amid social change.
