J.K. Rowling’s recent social media post has reignited tensions between her and the Harry Potter film stars like Daniel Radcliffe. The author, known for her outspoken views on gender identity, appeared to take aim at Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint in response to an online question. Her cryptic remark quickly sparked debate, with many interpreting it as a reference to her ongoing feud with the actors.
Here’s everything to know about Rowling’s post, her past disagreements with the Harry Potter stars, and the reactions from both supporters and critics.
What did J.K. Rowling post about Harry Potter stars?
J.K. Rowling appeared to criticize Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint in a social media post.
Responding to a question asking, “What actor/actress instantly ruins a movie for you?” she wrote, “Three guesses. Sorry, but that was irresistible,” followed by three laughing emojis. Many interpreted this as a reference to the three actors with whom she has had a public feud over trans rights.
Rowling’s dispute with the actors began in 2020 after she published an essay in which she described transgender identity as “deeply misogynistic and regressive” (via The Guardian.) Radcliffe responded, “Transgender women are women. Any statement to the contrary erases the identity and dignity of transgender people.”
Watson stated, “Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned.” Following the release of the Cass Review in 2024, which recommended changes to gender identity services in the UK, Rowling stated she could not “forgive” Radcliffe and Watson, saying, “Celebs who cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women’s hard-won rights… can save their apologies for traumatised detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single sex spaces.”
Radcliffe later revealed he had not spoken to Rowling in years. “Nothing in my life would have probably happened the way it is without that person,” he said (via Daily Mail.) “But that doesn’t mean that you owe the things you truly believe to someone else for your entire life.” Watson previously referenced the feud at the 2022 BAFTAs, stating, “I’m here for all the witches!” which many interpreted as a dig at Rowling.
