John Lithgow spoke out about his decision to join the Harry Potter TV series, despite disagreeing with J.K. Rowling’s views on transgender issues. At the Rotterdam Film Festival, where he was promoting his new film, Lithgow described Rowling’s stance as “ironic and inexplicable,” highlighting the contrast between her opinions and the themes in her books.
Lithgow Defends Role as Dumbledore While Criticizing Rowling’s Views
John Lithgow, set to play Dumbledore in the upcoming Harry Potter television adaptation, addressed controversy surrounding his involvement in the series amid criticism of Rowling’s anti-transgender comments. Speaking with Variety at the Rotterdam Film Festival, Lithgow emphasized his respect for Rowling’s work, calling it
“this amazing canon for young people”
that explores
“good versus evil, kindness versus cruelty.”
However, he expressed confusion and disappointment at Rowling’s positions on trans issues, saying,
“I find her views ironic and inexplicable.”
He added that seeing no sign of transphobia in the Harry Potter stories made the disconnect especially difficult for him.
“She’s written this mediation of kindness and acceptance. And Dumbledore is a beautiful role,”
Lithgow remarked, underscoring his admiration for the character and the series’ values.
Challenges and Support Amid Backlash
Lithgow revealed that he has never met J.K. Rowling and noted that she is
“not really involved in this production at all.”
Taking the role of Dumbledore was a “hard decision” for the actor, as he faced pressure to withdraw due to the controversy. Nevertheless, he chose to remain committed.
“It made me uncomfortable and unhappy that people insisted I walk away from the job. I chose not to do that,”
he said.
The actor praised his fellow cast and crew as “remarkable” and expressed enthusiasm for the long-term project.
“I signed a contract — I will be playing Dumbledore for the next eight years! I absolutely have to keep at it. I felt: ‘Wow! That means I will live to be 88.’ I have that in writing,”
Lithgow shared with a mix of humor and determination.
Lithgow’s Evolving Perspective on Rowling’s Controversy
His recent comments marked a shift from an earlier interview with The Times last April, in which he appeared more uncertain about the turmoil. At that time, Lithgow said,
“I thought, why is this a factor at all? I wonder how J.K. Rowling has absorbed it. I suppose at a certain point I’ll meet her and I’m curious to talk to her.”
New Film Role Explores Themes of Family and Identity
Alongside his work on the Harry Potter series, Lithgow stars in the film Jimpa, directed by Sophie Hyde. In this movie, he portrays an elderly gay man who comes out later in life. The story focuses on his relationship with his daughter Hannah, played by Olivia Colman, and her nonbinary teenager, Frances, portrayed by Aud Mason-Hyde.
This new role continues Lithgow’s engagement with complex social themes, adding depth to his public stance on contemporary issues, including those that surround the Harry Potter legacy.
