Despite facing increasing criticism, J.K. Rowling remains unwavering in her stance on transgender issues. Recently, several actors from the Harry Potter franchise—including Eddie Redmayne, Paapa Essiedu, and Katie Leung—added their names to an open letter supporting transgender rights. The letter was released in response to the UK Supreme Court’s recent ruling that defines “woman” and “sex” solely by biological terms. The ruling has reignited the long-standing debate surrounding gender identity, prompting a fiery response from Rowling.
The Harry Potter author took to social media platform X to share her reaction, where she expressed sharp disapproval of the actors who supported the letter. Referring to some of them as “back-stabbing colleagues,” Rowling claimed their support was largely driven by fear—whether of professional consequences or social backlash.
She stated, “Given the latest public letters from academics and artists opposing the UK Supreme Court’s decision on sex-based rights, it’s worth recalling that no rational person has ever believed that humans can change sex or that binary sex isn’t grounded in reality.”
Rowling went on to criticize what she sees as performative allyship, stating, “These letters serve only to reinforce what’s already clear: pretending to accept these ideas has become a marker of elitist virtue.”
Expanding further, she argued that those who signed such statements may be acting out of fear—not just for their careers but also due to pressure from “zealous allies” and online aggressors, including those who resort to threats and harassment. She also suggested that a number of liberal institutions are now heavily influenced by individuals with extreme ideologies.
Elsewhere in her post, Rowling highlighted a series of legal defeats suffered by transgender activists, suggesting that women’s rights groups are beginning to gain ground. She wrapped up her message by questioning the integrity of the letter’s signatories. Without naming anyone, she said she wonders if they ever reflect on their actions or feel any remorse.
https://x.com/jk_rowling/status/1918747065460420745
Actors and Celebrities Who Signed the Open Letter
The letter in question, which gained over 2,000 signatures, criticized the Supreme Court’s ruling, arguing that it endangers the safety and undermines the lived experiences of transgender, non-binary, and intersex individuals in the UK.
Eddie Redmayne, known for his role in Fantastic Beasts, joined other Harry Potter alumni like Katie Leung in supporting the letter. Paapa Essiedu, who is set to portray Severus Snape in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter reboot, also signed. Additional British celebrities backing the letter include Bella Ramsey, Nicola Coughlan, and Joe Alwyn.
