J.K. Rowling has issued a sharp rebuke to Emma Watson following the actress’s attempts to reconcile amid ongoing tension over Rowling’s controversial views on transgender issues. In a 700-word response shared on X (formerly Twitter), Rowling labelled Watson as "ignorant" and suggested that her privileged background insulated her from real-world struggles.
The conflict reignited after Watson, 35, expressed during a recent episode of the Jay Shetty Podcast that she still "treasures" Rowling, despite disagreeing with her perspectives on trans rights. Watson further clarified that holding differing views does not diminish her positive memories of Rowling from their time on the Harry Potter set.
In her lengthy post, Rowling highlighted the longstanding tensions with former child stars from the franchise, particularly targeting Watson and Daniel Radcliffe for what she perceives as their presumption of a right to publicly critique her based on their past association. Rowling asserted that their roles as alumni of her work have led them to assume the role of spokespersons for her literary universe, a position she disagrees with.
Rowling took issue with Watson’s past comments at the BAFTAs in 2022, where Watson proclaimed solidarity with the trans community, a statement that she claims intensified public backlash against her. Rowling recounted how Watson had sent her a note apologising for the fallout but critiqued the sincerity of the gesture, questioning why Watson didn’t reach out more directly despite having her phone number.
In what can be perceived as a personal attack, Rowling described Watson’s life as cushioned by wealth and fame, suggesting that this privilege makes it difficult for her to grasp the realities faced by people navigating gender issues in society. She pointedly remarked on the disparities between their experiences, drawing attention to the luxuries and protections surrounding Watson that others may not enjoy, including safety concerns in public settings.
Rowling concluded her post by asserting her right to express her opinions, emphasising that while Watson is free to disagree with her, she too has the right to respond to that disagreement. Following this exchange, Watson has not publicly addressed Rowling’s remarks, and Rowling continues to face backlash over her views, which many label as transphobic. Past comments by Rowling have caused significant backlash, leading some fans to boycott her works and distancing several Harry Potter stars from her controversial stances.