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HBO’s Harry Potter Cast Criticizes Rowling’s Gender Views

8/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Bel Powley will play Aunt Petunia Dursley in HBO’s Harry Potter series and says she strongly disagrees with J.K. Rowling’s gender views.
John Lithgow, cast as Albus Dumbledore, called Rowling’s views “ironic and inexplicable” and said he considered quitting before staying.
Nick Frost, playing Rubeus Hagrid, said his opinions do not align with Rowling’s gender commentary.
Season 1, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, will premiere on Christmas 2026 on HBO Max.

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Story summary

Bel Powley will play Aunt Petunia Dursley in HBO’s Harry Potter series and says she strongly disagrees with J.K. Rowling’s gender views.
John Lithgow, cast as Albus Dumbledore, called Rowling’s views “ironic and inexplicable” and said he considered quitting before staying.
Nick Frost, playing Rubeus Hagrid, said his opinions do not align with Rowling’s gender commentary.
Season 1, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, will premiere on Christmas 2026 on HBO Max.