<p>There is a new addition to the 'Harry Potter' universe. On Friday, the 'Hogwarts Legacy' video game was launched. The game comes at a time when the franchise is still embroiled in controversy over author JK Rowling's remark on the trans community.<br />
<br />
The Scottish writer has been plagued by threats and controversy since she publicly took issue in 2020 with the trans-inclusive phrase "people who menstruate" being used instead of the word "women".<br />
<br />
Many accused her of transphobia for putting the emphasis on biological sex over notions of gender. She denies the charge.<br />
<br />
The video game's release has prompted some to call for a boycott but thanks to pre-orders it is already sitting at the top of sales charts.</p>

<p>"It's not that this particular title has reprehensible things in it," said Will Overgard to news agency AFP. Overgard is a Seattle-based gamer and streamer who called on his followers not to buy the game.</p>

<p>"It's that supporting this title says 'A-okay' to some very, very, very questionable personal stances from (JK Rowling)."</p>

<p>Some specialist news sites, like TheGamer in Canada, are refusing to cover the release, though they have stopped short of calling for a boycott.</p>

<p>All that has done little to dampen enthusiasm among gamers for Hogwarts Legacy, which has been garnering rave reviews.</p>

<p><strong>- 'Dream come true' -</strong><br />
<br />
"It's the game that everyone has been waiting for," said Quentin Seigneur, a 31-year-old French entrepreneur who has been a fan of the franchise since the first book was released in French in 1998.<br />
He described the forthcoming game as a mix of Harry Potter's universe and the "open worlds" of the "Grand Theft Auto" video game franchise.</p>

<p>"We'll finally be the wizard we've all dreamt of being," he said.</p>

<p>Video games related to the franchise have not traditionally been huge hits -- the last attempt, 2019's 'Wizard's Unite', failed to find an audience and the publisher halted sales last year.</p>

<p>Players of "Hogwarts Legacy" get to spend time as students at the famous wizarding school, with courses in magic and multiple quests to complete.</p>

<p>The makers have said, it would be possible to choose gender in the new game, which is set to feature a trans character.</p>

<p><strong>- 'Holding their noses' -</strong><br />
<br />
The backlash seems not to have affected the popularity of the books or the shows and films based around them.</p>

<p>Book publisher Bloomsbury said sales of the wizarding tales leapt during pandemic lockdowns before falling back again, reflecting the broader pattern of book sales.</p>

<p>"For me, Harry Potter was an escape from the world," said Kyle Thomas, 32, who read the first book 20 years ago.</p>

<p>"I still listen to the audiobook every year, it's still my favourite book," said the Canadian, who was visiting London to see the play "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child".</p>

<p>LGBTQ gamers in the United States were split on the issue, said Cody Mejeur from the University of Buffalo.</p>

<p>While some wanted full-on boycotts, others were less militant and were thinking of buying the game second-hand to avoid giving money to Rowling.</p>

<p>Others, said Mejeur, loved the franchise and the idea of the game and would probably buy it while "holding their noses".</p>

<p>(With agency inputs)</p>


There is a new addition to the 'Harry Potter' universe. On Friday, the 'Hogwarts Legacy' video game was launched. The game comes at a time when the franchise is still embroiled in controversy over author JK Rowling's remark on the trans community.

There is a new addition to the 'Harry Potter' universe. On Friday, the 'Hogwarts Legacy' video game was launched. The game comes at a time when the franchise is still embroiled in controversy over author JK Rowling's remark on the trans community. The Scottish writer has been plagued by threats and controversy since she publicly took issue in 2020 with the trans-inclusive phrase "people who menstruate" being used instead of the word "women". Many accused her of transphobia for putting the emphasis on biological sex over notions of gender. She denies the charge. The video game's release has prompted some to call for a boycott but thanks to pre-orders it is already sitting at the top of sales charts. "It's not that this particular title has reprehensible things in it," said Will Overgard to news agency AFP. Overgard is a Seattle-based gamer and streamer who called on his followers not to buy the game. "It's that supporting this title says 'A-okay' to some very, very, very questionable personal stances from (JK Rowling)." Some specialist news sites, like TheGamer in Canada, are refusing to cover the release, though they have stopped short of calling for a boycott. All that has done little to dampen enthusiasm among gamers for Hogwarts Legacy, which has been garnering rave reviews. - 'Dream come true' - "It's the game that everyone has been waiting for," said Quentin Seigneur, a 31-year-old French entrepreneur who has been a fan of the franchise since the first book was released in French in 1998. He described the forthcoming game as a mix of Harry Potter's universe and the "open worlds" of the "Grand Theft Auto" video game franchise. "We'll finally be the wizard we've all dreamt of being," he said. Video games related to the franchise have not traditionally been huge hits -- the last attempt, 2019's 'Wizard's Unite', failed to find an audience and the publisher halted sales last year. Players of "Hogwarts Legacy" get to spend time as students at the famous wizarding school, with courses in magic and multiple quests to complete. The makers have said, it would be possible to choose gender in the new game, which is set to feature a trans character. - 'Holding their noses' - The backlash seems not to have affected the popularity of the books or the shows and films based around them. Book publisher Bloomsbury said sales of the wizarding tales leapt during pandemic lockdowns before falling back again, reflecting the broader pattern of book sales. "For me, Harry Potter was an escape from the world," said Kyle Thomas, 32, who read the first book 20 years ago. "I still listen to the audiobook every year, it's still my favourite book," said the Canadian, who was visiting London to see the play "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child". LGBTQ gamers in the United States were split on the issue, said Cody Mejeur from the University of Buffalo. While some wanted full-on boycotts, others were less militant and were thinking of buying the game second-hand to avoid giving money to Rowling. Others, said Mejeur, loved the franchise and the idea of the game and would probably buy it while "holding their noses". (With agency inputs)

New Harry Potter video game gets bumper sales despite LGBTQ backlash

<p>Scottish acting legend and 'Succession' star Brian Cox has lent his support to author JK Rowling in the 'transphobia' controversy. The scribe of the 'Harry Potter' fantasy series has been mired in transphobia allegations after she made statements on her blog and Twitter handle that many deemed offensive to members of the trans community. Cox, who plays the role of Logan Roy in 'Succession', said during an appearance on BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg that he takes exception to how Rowling has been treated. “I don’t like the way she’s been treated, actually. I think she’s entitled to her opinion; she’s entitled to say what she feels."</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/harry-potter-author-jk-rowling-defends-transgender-comments-305104/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>He added, "As a woman, she’s very much entitled to say what she feels about her own body, and there’s nobody better to say that, as a woman. So, I do feel that people have been a bit high and mighty about their own attitude towards J.K. Rowling, quite frankly.”</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-jk-rowlings-name-is-being-removed-from-harry-potter-books-for-this-reason-553070">JK Rowling's name is being removed from 'Harry Potter' books for this reason</a></strong></p>

<p>Even after trenchant criticism, Rowling, however, refused to back down from her opinions. She has also denied the anti-trans accusations and said that a few positions taken by the trans community infringe upon the rights of biological women.</p>

<p>She earned the ire of the trans community and activists in 2020 when on Twitter she argued that gender identity contravenes biological sex. She said, "If sex isn’t real, there’s no same-sex attraction. If sex isn’t real, the lived reality of women globally is erased. I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cox will be seen in the fourth season of 'Succession'. It arrives in the spring of 2023.</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Scottish acting legend and 'Succession' star Brian Cox has lent his support to author JK Rowling in the 'transphobia' controversy. The scribe of the 'Harry Potter' fantasy series has been mired in transphobia allegations after she made statements on her blog and Twitter handle that many deemed offensive to members of the trans community.

Scottish acting legend and 'Succession' star Brian Cox has lent his support to author JK Rowling in the 'transphobia' controversy. The scribe of the 'Harry Potter' fantasy series has been mired in transphobia allegations after she made statements on her blog and Twitter handle that many deemed offensive to members of the trans community. Cox, who plays the role of Logan Roy in 'Succession', said during an appearance on BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg that he takes exception to how Rowling has been treated. “I don’t like the way she’s been treated, actually. I think she’s entitled to her opinion; she’s entitled to say what she feels." He added, "As a woman, she’s very much entitled to say what she feels about her own body, and there’s nobody better to say that, as a woman. So, I do feel that people have been a bit high and mighty about their own attitude towards J.K. Rowling, quite frankly.” Also Read: JK Rowling's name is being removed from 'Harry Potter' books for this reason Even after trenchant criticism, Rowling, however, refused to back down from her opinions. She has also denied the anti-trans accusations and said that a few positions taken by the trans community infringe upon the rights of biological women. She earned the ire of the trans community and activists in 2020 when on Twitter she argued that gender identity contravenes biological sex. She said, "If sex isn’t real, there’s no same-sex attraction. If sex isn’t real, the lived reality of women globally is erased. I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives.” Cox will be seen in the fourth season of 'Succession'. It arrives in the spring of 2023.

'Succession' actor Brian Cox supports JK Rowling amid 'transphobia' controversy: She’s entitled to her opinion

<p>It's been nearly three years since JK Rowling first sparked controversy over her homophobic comments on Twitter but Rowling continues to get flack from readers of 'Harry Potter' series which she famously wrote.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
A 23-year-old trans artist in Toronto Canada has been working hard to painstakingly&nbsp;remove Rowling's name from used 'Harry Potter' books. The individual is not only removing the author's name from the book covers with self-created custom covers but also attempting to remove her name from the copyright pages and title pages as well.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
So far the artist has completed at least 30 new 'rebound books'. They are up for sale in their newly bound form.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The artist, Laur Flom, runs a website based out of Canada and started making the changes to 'help out' any 'Harry Potter' fans who may find it difficult to read the books while seeing Rowling's name on it.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Flom started working on the project a year ago and mentioned to a news website that his motivation was Rowling facing backlash over her comments which many deemed as transphobic.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Laur Flom told SWNS, "The project is spurred by her transphobia … I was [a fan]. Growing up when I did, it was a given that you would read ‘Harry Potter.’"<br />
<br />
Flom added, however, that "after J.K Rowling's views on people like me came out, it left a bad taste in my mouth. It raised questions about the ethics of consuming her work."<br />
<br />
Flom claims that the idea of removing her name came to provide a "safe space for fans to find comfort in the book and critically engage with JK Rowling's work."<br />
<br />
Flom, who also works as a bartender- seeks more second-hand copies of the 'Harry Potter' book in order to "recreate" them.<br />
<br />
<strong>The process is long</strong><br />
<br />
Once Flom gets a book, he first replaces the cover with his own recreated version. Each book, reportedly, takes around 12 hours to re-bind- not including the time it takes for him to package the books and send them off to buyers.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Flom reportedly sells each newly bound book for about $170. For a set of seven, he charges roughly $1,200. &nbsp;<br />
<br />
A portion of each sale is donated to charities working with the trans community.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Flom says, "My practice is largely conceptual, exploring themes surrounding identity, memory and trans masculinity. I also occasionally rebind Harry Potter books."<br />
<br />
The 'Harry Potter' books have been bestsellers for over two decades now. Scholastic first published 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' book in the US in September 1998.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Over the years, the publishers have stated that over 500 million copies of the 'Harry Potter' book series have been sold. More than 180 million copies have been sold in the U.S. alone, it also says.</p>


It's been nearly three years since JK Rowling first sparked controversy over her homophobic comments on Twitter but Rowling continues to get flack from readers of 'Harry Potter' series which she famously wrote.

It's been nearly three years since JK Rowling first sparked controversy over her homophobic comments on Twitter but Rowling continues to get flack from readers of 'Harry Potter' series which she famously wrote. A 23-year-old trans artist in Toronto Canada has been working hard to painstakingly remove Rowling's name from used 'Harry Potter' books. The individual is not only removing the author's name from the book covers with self-created custom covers but also attempting to remove her name from the copyright pages and title pages as well. So far the artist has completed at least 30 new 'rebound books'. They are up for sale in their newly bound form. The artist, Laur Flom, runs a website based out of Canada and started making the changes to 'help out' any 'Harry Potter' fans who may find it difficult to read the books while seeing Rowling's name on it. Flom started working on the project a year ago and mentioned to a news website that his motivation was Rowling facing backlash over her comments which many deemed as transphobic. Laur Flom told SWNS, "The project is spurred by her transphobia … I was [a fan]. Growing up when I did, it was a given that you would read ‘Harry Potter.’" Flom added, however, that "after J.K Rowling's views on people like me came out, it left a bad taste in my mouth. It raised questions about the ethics of consuming her work." Flom claims that the idea of removing her name came to provide a "safe space for fans to find comfort in the book and critically engage with JK Rowling's work." Flom, who also works as a bartender- seeks more second-hand copies of the 'Harry Potter' book in order to "recreate" them. The process is long Once Flom gets a book, he first replaces the cover with his own recreated version. Each book, reportedly, takes around 12 hours to re-bind- not including the time it takes for him to package the books and send them off to buyers. Flom reportedly sells each newly bound book for about $170. For a set of seven, he charges roughly $1,200. A portion of each sale is donated to charities working with the trans community. Flom says, "My practice is largely conceptual, exploring themes surrounding identity, memory and trans masculinity. I also occasionally rebind Harry Potter books." The 'Harry Potter' books have been bestsellers for over two decades now. Scholastic first published 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' book in the US in September 1998. Over the years, the publishers have stated that over 500 million copies of the 'Harry Potter' book series have been sold. More than 180 million copies have been sold in the U.S. alone, it also says.

JK Rowling's name is being removed from 'Harry Potter' books for this reason

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowling-launches-a-service-to-help-victims-of-sexual-violence-542550">JK Rowling</a></strong> has come under fire in the last few years over her allegedly transphobic views. She has been criticised by many people from the trans community, activists, and allies in different fields. Rowling has said that many positions taken by the trans community infringe upon the rights of biological women. Even the cast of the 'Harry Potter' franchise, including the big trio (Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint), have spoken against her views, albeit without explicitly criticising her. Rowling is best known for writing the 'Harry Potter' books, the source material of the movie series. Now another cast member, Harry Melling, has opened up about the controversy.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/actor-robbie-coltrane-dies-at-the-age-of-72-jk-rowling-calls-him-an-incredible-talent-525577/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Melling, who played the role of Dudley Dursley (Harry's mean cousin) in the movies, gave a pretty balanced answer to the debate, without, as he said, pointing any fingers.</p>

<p>In an interview with The Independent, he said, “I can only speak for myself, and what I feel, to me, is very simple, which is that transgender women are women and transgender men are men. Every single person has the right to choose who they are and to identify themselves as what’s true to themselves."</p>

<p>Also Read:<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-jk-rowling-new-book-termed-transphobic-author-denies-character-based-on-her-life-experience-512119">&nbsp;JK Rowling new book termed transphobic, author denies character based on her life experience</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "I don’t want to join the debate of pointing fingers and saying, ‘That’s right, that’s wrong,’ because I don’t think I’m the correct spokesperson for that. But I do believe that everybody has the right to choose.”</p>

<p>Rowling first angered the trans community and activists in 2020 when on Twitter she argued that gender identity contravenes biological sex. She said, "If sex isn’t real, there’s no same-sex attraction. If sex isn’t real, the lived reality of women globally is erased. I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>She has refused to back down from her opinions despite the considerable outcry. She has also denied the anti-trans accusations.</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


JK Rowling has come under fire in the last few years over her allegedly transphobic views. She has been criticised by many people from the trans community, activists, and allies in different fields.

JK Rowling has come under fire in the last few years over her allegedly transphobic views. She has been criticised by many people from the trans community, activists, and allies in different fields. Rowling has said that many positions taken by the trans community infringe upon the rights of biological women. Even the cast of the 'Harry Potter' franchise, including the big trio (Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint), have spoken against her views, albeit without explicitly criticising her. Rowling is best known for writing the 'Harry Potter' books, the source material of the movie series. Now another cast member, Harry Melling, has opened up about the controversy. Melling, who played the role of Dudley Dursley (Harry's mean cousin) in the movies, gave a pretty balanced answer to the debate, without, as he said, pointing any fingers. In an interview with The Independent, he said, “I can only speak for myself, and what I feel, to me, is very simple, which is that transgender women are women and transgender men are men. Every single person has the right to choose who they are and to identify themselves as what’s true to themselves." Also Read: JK Rowling new book termed transphobic, author denies character based on her life experience He added, "I don’t want to join the debate of pointing fingers and saying, ‘That’s right, that’s wrong,’ because I don’t think I’m the correct spokesperson for that. But I do believe that everybody has the right to choose.” Rowling first angered the trans community and activists in 2020 when on Twitter she argued that gender identity contravenes biological sex. She said, "If sex isn’t real, there’s no same-sex attraction. If sex isn’t real, the lived reality of women globally is erased. I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives.” She has refused to back down from her opinions despite the considerable outcry. She has also denied the anti-trans accusations.

Dudley actor Harry Melling on JK Rowling 'transphobia' controversy: 'Every single person...'

<p>'Harry Potter'&nbsp;author J. K. Rowling on Monday launched an organisation for women who have been victims of sexual violence.</p>

<p>Beira's Place is billed as a free support and advocacy service run by women for women in Edinburgh and the surrounding area who have experienced abuse.</p>

<p>Rowling, who lives in the Scottish capital and is helping to fund the centre, has spoken in the past of being a survivor of domestic violence.</p>

<p>But the launch comes as debate rages in the UK about recognition of gender identity, which has seen Rowling the target of militant transgender rights supporters.</p>

<p>In 2020, she was accused of transphobia for mocking the phrase "people who menstruate", in a row that escalated into death threats.</p>

<p>The new centre comes as the devolved Scottish government in Edinburgh has put forward proposals to simplify the process for anyone who wants to change their gender.</p>

<p>Rowling has criticised the reforms of the Gender Recognition Act. Others opposed to the move are on the board of Beira's Place, the BBC reported.<br />
<o:p></o:p></p>


'Harry Potter' author J. K. Rowling on Monday launched an organisation for women who have been victims of sexual violence. Beira's Place is billed as a free support and advocacy service run by women for women in Edinburgh and the surrounding area who have experienced abuse.

'Harry Potter' author J. K. Rowling on Monday launched an organisation for women who have been victims of sexual violence. Beira's Place is billed as a free support and advocacy service run by women for women in Edinburgh and the surrounding area who have experienced abuse. Rowling, who lives in the Scottish capital and is helping to fund the centre, has spoken in the past of being a survivor of domestic violence. But the launch comes as debate rages in the UK about recognition of gender identity, which has seen Rowling the target of militant transgender rights supporters. In 2020, she was accused of transphobia for mocking the phrase "people who menstruate", in a row that escalated into death threats. The new centre comes as the devolved Scottish government in Edinburgh has put forward proposals to simplify the process for anyone who wants to change their gender. Rowling has criticised the reforms of the Gender Recognition Act. Others opposed to the move are on the board of Beira's Place, the BBC reported.

JK Rowling launches a service to help victims of sexual violence

<p>Actor Ralph Fiennes has spoken in defence of author JK Rowling who has been subjected to severe trolling online over her comments on the trans community.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Fiennes famous played Voldemort in the 'Harry Potter' franchise which was based on Rowling's books by the same name.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The actor recently spoke to The New York Times Magazine and said that the 'verbal abuse' that Rowling receives online is 'disgusting' and 'appalling'.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"I mean, I can understand a viewpoint that might be angry at what she says about women. But (she’s) not some obscene, über-right-wing fascist. It's just a woman saying, ‘I’m a woman and I feel I’m a woman and I want to be able to say that I'm a woman.’ And I understand where she’s coming from. Even though I’m not a woman."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Rowling sparked controversy in June 2020 when she took to Twitter to comment on an op-ed regarding "people who menstruate" and mocked the article for not using the word "Women'. The comment led to massive backlash, especially from the transgender community and many termed her transphobic. Rowling had defended herself and subsequently wrote an elaborate essay but since then has received severe criticism and trolling on social media.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Fiennes co-stars from the 'Harry Potter' franchise- including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint too have issued statements in support of the trans community. Rowling’s comments have also been condemned by a number of LGBTQ+ rights groups, including GLAAD, the Human Rights Coalition, and The Trevor Project.<br />
<br />
Fiennes had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-harry-potter-actor-ralph-fiennes-sides-with-jk-rowling-over-transphobic-tweet-calls-backlash-disturbing-371432">earlier too defended Rowling </a>and praised her books for giving so many young people a voice. "JK Rowling has written these great books about empowerment, about young children finding themselves as human beings. It’s about how you become a better, stronger, more morally centered human being,” he said.</p>


Actor Ralph Fiennes has spoken in defence of author JK Rowling who has been subjected to severe trolling online over her comments on the trans community. Fiennes famous played Voldemort in the 'Harry Potter' franchise which was based on Rowling's books by the same name.

Actor Ralph Fiennes has spoken in defence of author JK Rowling who has been subjected to severe trolling online over her comments on the trans community. Fiennes famous played Voldemort in the 'Harry Potter' franchise which was based on Rowling's books by the same name. The actor recently spoke to The New York Times Magazine and said that the 'verbal abuse' that Rowling receives online is 'disgusting' and 'appalling'. "I mean, I can understand a viewpoint that might be angry at what she says about women. But (she’s) not some obscene, über-right-wing fascist. It's just a woman saying, ‘I’m a woman and I feel I’m a woman and I want to be able to say that I'm a woman.’ And I understand where she’s coming from. Even though I’m not a woman." Rowling sparked controversy in June 2020 when she took to Twitter to comment on an op-ed regarding "people who menstruate" and mocked the article for not using the word "Women'. The comment led to massive backlash, especially from the transgender community and many termed her transphobic. Rowling had defended herself and subsequently wrote an elaborate essay but since then has received severe criticism and trolling on social media. Fiennes co-stars from the 'Harry Potter' franchise- including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint too have issued statements in support of the trans community. Rowling’s comments have also been condemned by a number of LGBTQ+ rights groups, including GLAAD, the Human Rights Coalition, and The Trevor Project. Fiennes had earlier too defended Rowling and praised her books for giving so many young people a voice. "JK Rowling has written these great books about empowerment, about young children finding themselves as human beings. It’s about how you become a better, stronger, more morally centered human being,” he said.

Ralph Fiennes says trolling JK Rowling over trans controversy is 'disgusting' 

<p>Irish actor and talk show host Graham Norton deactivated his Twitter account after British author JK Rowling criticised him for&nbsp;his recent comments about the transgender community and cancel culture. But, his fans and followers came out in his support and started trending 'I Stand With Graham Norton' hashtag.</p>

<p>While he got highly praised by netizens for putting forth "one of the most sensible takes on cancel culture",&nbsp;&nbsp;the 'Harry Potter'&nbsp;writer,&nbsp;who often clashes with trans activists on social media, slammed him publically on Twitter and accused him of&nbsp;supporting those behind rape and death threats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Deadline, the row started after Norton was commended by singer-songwriter Billy Bragg for his position on trans rights made at the Cheltenham Literature Festival.</p>

<p>Rowling said that Bragg was “supporting rape and death threats” by backing Norton, who appeared to have actually said very little to spark the controversy.</p>

<p>When questioned on Rowling’s position on trans rights, Norton had said, “When I’m asked about it, I become a part of it. My voice adds nothing to that discussion and I’m sort of embarrassed that I’m somehow drawn into it.</p>

<p>“If people want to shine a light on those issues then talk to trans people. Talk to the parents of trans kids, talk to doctors, talk to scientists. Talk to someone who can illuminate it in some way,” he added.</p>

<p>The comments were part of an answer to an initial question about ‘Monty Python’ star John Cleese, who often criticises what he sees as cancel culture.</p>

<p>Norton said so-called ‘cancel culture’ was another phrase for ‘accountability’ facing celebrities over their words.</p>

<p>However, while criticizing Bragg, Rowling wrote on Twitter,&nbsp;“Enjoying the recent spate of bearded men stepping confidently onto their soapboxes to define what a woman is and throw their support behind rape and death threats. You may mock, but takes real bravery to come out as an Old Testament prophet.”</p>

<p>Neither Norton nor Bragg had referenced rape or death threats in their statements and following Rowling’s tweet, Norton has since deleted his @grahnort account.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Irish actor and talk show host Graham Norton deactivated his Twitter account after British author JK Rowling criticised him for his recent comments about the transgender community and cancel culture.

Irish actor and talk show host Graham Norton deactivated his Twitter account after British author JK Rowling criticised him for his recent comments about the transgender community and cancel culture. But, his fans and followers came out in his support and started trending 'I Stand With Graham Norton' hashtag. While he got highly praised by netizens for putting forth "one of the most sensible takes on cancel culture", the 'Harry Potter' writer, who often clashes with trans activists on social media, slammed him publically on Twitter and accused him of supporting those behind rape and death threats. According to Deadline, the row started after Norton was commended by singer-songwriter Billy Bragg for his position on trans rights made at the Cheltenham Literature Festival. Rowling said that Bragg was “supporting rape and death threats” by backing Norton, who appeared to have actually said very little to spark the controversy. When questioned on Rowling’s position on trans rights, Norton had said, “When I’m asked about it, I become a part of it. My voice adds nothing to that discussion and I’m sort of embarrassed that I’m somehow drawn into it. “If people want to shine a light on those issues then talk to trans people. Talk to the parents of trans kids, talk to doctors, talk to scientists. Talk to someone who can illuminate it in some way,” he added. The comments were part of an answer to an initial question about ‘Monty Python’ star John Cleese, who often criticises what he sees as cancel culture. Norton said so-called ‘cancel culture’ was another phrase for ‘accountability’ facing celebrities over their words. However, while criticizing Bragg, Rowling wrote on Twitter, “Enjoying the recent spate of bearded men stepping confidently onto their soapboxes to define what a woman is and throw their support behind rape and death threats. You may mock, but takes real bravery to come out as an Old Testament prophet.” Neither Norton nor Bragg had referenced rape or death threats in their statements and following Rowling’s tweet, Norton has since deleted his @grahnort account. (With inputs from agencies)

Graham Norton quits Twitter after JK Rowling criticised his comments on trans rights

<p>Veteran Scottish actor and comedian Robbie Coltrane passed away at the age of 72 on Friday (October 14). He had been suffering from ill health for close to two years. While he remained an active actor for more than 40 years and was a part of numerous big and small screen projects, he will be best remembered for his work in the 'Harry Potter' franchise as Rubeus Hagrid, a half-human and half-giant gamekeeper of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the main setting of the movies. Hagrid was the heart of the movies, a sort of gentle giant who loved a quiet life and preferred the company of animals and magical creatures more than humans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/robbie-coltrane-who-played-hagrid-in-harry-potter-movies-passes-away-525522">Actor Robbie Coltrane, who played Hagrid in Harry Potter movies, passes away</a></strong></p>

<p>As soon as the news of his demise emerged, tributes began pouring out on social media and other platforms. Coltrane's co-stars in 'Harry Potter' movies, the author of 'Harry Potter' book series JK Rowling, and other luminaries took to their social media handles to share tributes and condolences.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I'll never know anyone remotely like Robbie again. He was an incredible talent, a complete one off, and I was beyond fortunate to know him, work with him and laugh my head off with him. I send my love and deepest condolences to his family, above all his children. <a href="https://t.co/tzpln8hD9z">pic.twitter.com/tzpln8hD9z</a></p>
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling/status/1580974122888089601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>JK Rowling tweeted, "I’ll never know anyone remotely like Robbie again. He was an incredible talent, a complete one off, and I was beyond fortunate to know him, work with him and laugh my head off with him. I send my love and deepest condolences to his family, above all his children.”</p>

<p>In a statement, Daniel Radcliffe, who played the titular role of Harry Potter, said, "Robbie was one of the funniest people I’ve met and used to keep us laughing constantly as kids on the set. I’ve especially fond memories of him keeping our spirits up on Prisoner of Azkaban, when we were all hiding from the torrential rain for hours in Hagrid’s hut and he was telling stories and cracking jokes to keep morale up. I feel incredibly lucky that I got to meet and work with him and very sad that he’s passed. He was an incredible actor and a lovely man.”</p>

<p>On an Instagram story, Emma Watson, Hermione Granger of the 'Harry Potter' movies, said, "Robbie was like the most fun uncle I’ve ever had, but most of all, he was deeply caring and compassionate towards me as a child and an adult. His talent was so immense that it made sense he played a giant — he could fill ANY space with his brilliance. Robbie, if I ever get to be so kind as you were to me on a film set I promise I’ll do it in your name and memory. Know how much I adore and admire you. I’ll really miss your sweetness, your nicknames, your warmth, your laughs, and your hugs. You made us a family. Know you were that to us. There was no better Hagrid. You made it a joy to be Hermoine.”</p>

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<p>Tom Felton, who essayed the villainous Draco Malfoy in the movies, shared on Instagram, "One of my fondest memories of filming Harry Potter was a night shoot on the first film in the forbidden forest. I was 12. Robbie cared &amp; looked after everyone around of him. Effortlessly. And made them laugh. Effortlessly. He was a big friendly giant on screen but even more so In real life. Love you mate – thank you for everything xx.”</p>

<p>On Twitter, "Matthew Lewis, Neville Longbottom in the movies, wrote, "Robbie. Bobser. He called me Space Boy. We shared a love of the final frontier. He didn’t give a fuck and it always made you smile. A giant, in more ways than one. We had some times x."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Robbie. Bobser. He called me Space Boy. We shared a love of the final frontier. He didn’t give a fuck and it always made you smile. A giant, in more ways than one. We had some times x</p>
— 🇺🇦Matthew Lewis🇺🇦 (@Mattdavelewis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mattdavelewis/status/1580979884653887489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Another actor in the movies, David Thewlis shared on Instagram, “The richest, mightiest and most mischievous laughter on set was all big Robbie’s fault. You are forever loved, dear man, and will be sorely missed.”</p>

<p>The official Twitter account of Wizarding World also shared a tribute for Robbie Coltrane. "We are hugely saddened to hear of the passing of the magnificent Robbie Coltrane who played Hagrid with such kindness, heart and humour in the Harry Potter films. He was a wonderful actor, a friend to all and he will be deeply missed," a tweet read.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I first met Robbie Coltrane almost exactly 40 years ago. I was awe/terror/love struck all at the same time. Such depth, power &amp; talent: funny enough to cause helpless hiccups &amp; honking as we made our first TV show, “Alfresco”. Farewell, old fellow. You’ll be so dreadfully missed</p>
— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) <a href="https://twitter.com/stephenfry/status/1580965904854134788?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Stephen Fry, author and actor, tweeted, "I first met Robbie Coltrane almost exactly 40 years ago. I was awe/terror/love struck all at the same time. Such depth, power &amp; talent: funny enough to cause helpless hiccups &amp; honking as we made our first TV show, “Alfresco”. Farewell, old fellow. You’ll be so dreadfully missed."</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pudHrUqy2I0" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Coltrane was last seen in 'Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts', a reunion special that reunited much of the cast and crew on the occasion of the film series celebrating 20 years of existence. He was a big part of the emotional special. Towards the end, he says words that assume even more poignant import after his passing.</p>

<p>“The legacy of the movies is that my children’s generation will show them to their children. So you could be watching it in 50 years’ time, easy. I’ll not be here, sadly... But Hagrid will, yes.”</p>

<p>Rest in peace, professor.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Veteran Scottish actor and comedian Robbie Coltrane passed away at the age of 72 on Friday (October 14). He had been suffering from ill health for close to two years.

Veteran Scottish actor and comedian Robbie Coltrane passed away at the age of 72 on Friday (October 14). He had been suffering from ill health for close to two years. While he remained an active actor for more than 40 years and was a part of numerous big and small screen projects, he will be best remembered for his work in the 'Harry Potter' franchise as Rubeus Hagrid, a half-human and half-giant gamekeeper of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the main setting of the movies. Hagrid was the heart of the movies, a sort of gentle giant who loved a quiet life and preferred the company of animals and magical creatures more than humans. Also Read: Actor Robbie Coltrane, who played Hagrid in Harry Potter movies, passes away As soon as the news of his demise emerged, tributes began pouring out on social media and other platforms. Coltrane's co-stars in 'Harry Potter' movies, the author of 'Harry Potter' book series JK Rowling, and other luminaries took to their social media handles to share tributes and condolences. I'll never know anyone remotely like Robbie again. He was an incredible talent, a complete one off, and I was beyond fortunate to know him, work with him and laugh my head off with him. I send my love and deepest condolences to his family, above all his children. pic.twitter.com/tzpln8hD9z — J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) October 14, 2022 × JK Rowling tweeted, "I’ll never know anyone remotely like Robbie again. He was an incredible talent, a complete one off, and I was beyond fortunate to know him, work with him and laugh my head off with him. I send my love and deepest condolences to his family, above all his children.” In a statement, Daniel Radcliffe, who played the titular role of Harry Potter, said, "Robbie was one of the funniest people I’ve met and used to keep us laughing constantly as kids on the set. I’ve especially fond memories of him keeping our spirits up on Prisoner of Azkaban, when we were all hiding from the torrential rain for hours in Hagrid’s hut and he was telling stories and cracking jokes to keep morale up. I feel incredibly lucky that I got to meet and work with him and very sad that he’s passed. He was an incredible actor and a lovely man.” On an Instagram story, Emma Watson, Hermione Granger of the 'Harry Potter' movies, said, "Robbie was like the most fun uncle I’ve ever had, but most of all, he was deeply caring and compassionate towards me as a child and an adult. His talent was so immense that it made sense he played a giant — he could fill ANY space with his brilliance. Robbie, if I ever get to be so kind as you were to me on a film set I promise I’ll do it in your name and memory. Know how much I adore and admire you. I’ll really miss your sweetness, your nicknames, your warmth, your laughs, and your hugs. You made us a family. Know you were that to us. There was no better Hagrid. You made it a joy to be Hermoine.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tom Felton (@t22felton) × Tom Felton, who essayed the villainous Draco Malfoy in the movies, shared on Instagram, "One of my fondest memories of filming Harry Potter was a night shoot on the first film in the forbidden forest. I was 12. Robbie cared & looked after everyone around of him. Effortlessly. And made them laugh. Effortlessly. He was a big friendly giant on screen but even more so In real life. Love you mate – thank you for everything xx.” On Twitter, "Matthew Lewis, Neville Longbottom in the movies, wrote, "Robbie. Bobser. He called me Space Boy. We shared a love of the final frontier. He didn’t give a fuck and it always made you smile. A giant, in more ways than one. We had some times x." Robbie. Bobser. He called me Space Boy. We shared a love of the final frontier. He didn’t give a fuck and it always made you smile. A giant, in more ways than one. We had some times x — 🇺🇦Matthew Lewis🇺🇦 (@Mattdavelewis) October 14, 2022 × Another actor in the movies, David Thewlis shared on Instagram, “The richest, mightiest and most mischievous laughter on set was all big Robbie’s fault. You are forever loved, dear man, and will be sorely missed.” The official Twitter account of Wizarding World also shared a tribute for Robbie Coltrane. "We are hugely saddened to hear of the passing of the magnificent Robbie Coltrane who played Hagrid with such kindness, heart and humour in the Harry Potter films. He was a wonderful actor, a friend to all and he will be deeply missed," a tweet read. I first met Robbie Coltrane almost exactly 40 years ago. I was awe/terror/love struck all at the same time. Such depth, power & talent: funny enough to cause helpless hiccups & honking as we made our first TV show, “Alfresco”. Farewell, old fellow. You’ll be so dreadfully missed — Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) October 14, 2022 × Stephen Fry, author and actor, tweeted, "I first met Robbie Coltrane almost exactly 40 years ago. I was awe/terror/love struck all at the same time. Such depth, power & talent: funny enough to cause helpless hiccups & honking as we made our first TV show, “Alfresco”. Farewell, old fellow. You’ll be so dreadfully missed." Coltrane was last seen in 'Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts', a reunion special that reunited much of the cast and crew on the occasion of the film series celebrating 20 years of existence. He was a big part of the emotional special. Towards the end, he says words that assume even more poignant import after his passing. “The legacy of the movies is that my children’s generation will show them to their children. So you could be watching it in 50 years’ time, easy. I’ll not be here, sadly... But Hagrid will, yes.” Rest in peace, professor. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Robbie Coltrane dies: JK Rowling, Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, others remember the 'big friendly giant'

<p>Actor Tom Felton, who famously played Draco Malfoy in the 'Harry Potter' film series has spoken in support of author JK Rowling on whose books the films were based. Over the last few years, Rowling has been slammed majorly on social media for her beliefs on biological sex and gender.<br />
<br />
Felton spoke about his admiration for Rowling and how her writing has brought people together across the world in an interview with The Times Of London.<br />
<br />
"I can't speak for what other individuals have said," he told the outlet. "I am constantly reminded that the Potter-verse, certainly when we were finishing the films, there was an expectation that the fandom would be dwindling slowly over the years, whereas most fans that say hello to me, shout ‘Potter’ or ‘Draco’ at me weren't even born when the books were being made."<br />
<br />
Felton added how grateful he was to the author. "I am quick to remind myself and others that ‘Potter’ for some reason has brought more people together across the world and more generations than probably anything else has in the past 20 years, and I'm quick to celebrate that," he added. "It came from one person, and that's her, so I'm very grateful."<br />
<br />
In 2020, Rowling created quite a stir on social media when she defended the concept of biological sex on Twitter.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;The author reposted an article titled: "Creating a more equal post-COVID-19 world for people who menstruate."<br />
<br />
he wrote in response, "People who menstruate. I’m sure there used to be a word for those people. Someone help me out. Wumben? Wimpund? Woomud?"<br />
<br />
Rowling continued to defend her position, writing, "If sex isn’t real, there’s no same-sex attraction. If sex isn’t real, the lived reality of women globally is erased. I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives. It isn’t hate to speak the truth."<br />
<br />
Rowling was slammed and termed an anti-LGBTQ community which she denied repeatedly in later posts.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Since then, the author has been outspoken about regularly receiving threats online since she shared her views.&nbsp;<br />
Several stars from the 'Harry Potter' film series including Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe have also openly criticised Rowling for her comments. The author was also absent from the reunion special in late 2021 that the film franchise celebrated on the completion of 20 years.&nbsp;</p>


Actor Tom Felton, who famously played Draco Malfoy in the 'Harry Potter' film series has spoken in support of author JK Rowling on whose books the films were based.

Actor Tom Felton, who famously played Draco Malfoy in the 'Harry Potter' film series has spoken in support of author JK Rowling on whose books the films were based. Over the last few years, Rowling has been slammed majorly on social media for her beliefs on biological sex and gender. Felton spoke about his admiration for Rowling and how her writing has brought people together across the world in an interview with The Times Of London. "I can't speak for what other individuals have said," he told the outlet. "I am constantly reminded that the Potter-verse, certainly when we were finishing the films, there was an expectation that the fandom would be dwindling slowly over the years, whereas most fans that say hello to me, shout ‘Potter’ or ‘Draco’ at me weren't even born when the books were being made." Felton added how grateful he was to the author. "I am quick to remind myself and others that ‘Potter’ for some reason has brought more people together across the world and more generations than probably anything else has in the past 20 years, and I'm quick to celebrate that," he added. "It came from one person, and that's her, so I'm very grateful." In 2020, Rowling created quite a stir on social media when she defended the concept of biological sex on Twitter. The author reposted an article titled: "Creating a more equal post-COVID-19 world for people who menstruate." he wrote in response, "People who menstruate. I’m sure there used to be a word for those people. Someone help me out. Wumben? Wimpund? Woomud?" Rowling continued to defend her position, writing, "If sex isn’t real, there’s no same-sex attraction. If sex isn’t real, the lived reality of women globally is erased. I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives. It isn’t hate to speak the truth." Rowling was slammed and termed an anti-LGBTQ community which she denied repeatedly in later posts. Since then, the author has been outspoken about regularly receiving threats online since she shared her views. Several stars from the 'Harry Potter' film series including Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe have also openly criticised Rowling for her comments. The author was also absent from the reunion special in late 2021 that the film franchise celebrated on the completion of 20 years.

Tom Felton speaks in support of JK Rowling amid online backlash 

<p>JK Rowling's new book is courting controversy even before its release. Rowling's new book 'The Ink Black Heart' has been termed transphobic with one of the main characters&nbsp;bearing eerie similarities&nbsp;to Rowling.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The author has now denied that the character has been written inspired by her own experience. The character in the book dies after being persecuted online by trolls after one of the cartoons he has created is termed as racist, ableist, and transphobic. Rowling has written the book under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
During a recent online session, Rowling denied that the controversial character was based on her own experience. Rowling has in the past been termed transphobic by LGBTQ+ advocates and multiple stars from the 'Harry Potter' franchise. She claimed to have received death threats even. Rowling stated that the concept for the book came long before she was criticized for her views.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have never created a book – and this book certainly isn’t created from my own experience – you know, with a view to talking about my own life," she wrote online. "That doesn’t mean, of course, that your own life experience isn’t in the book."<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-jk-rowlings-new-books-plot-may-seem-too-familiar-to-readers-heres-why-511585">JK Rowling's new book's plot may seem too familiar to readers. Here's why</a><br />
<br />
Answering as her pen name, Rowling wrote, "With this book – I had been planning this book for so long and then a couple of the things that happen in this book have since happened to me. And so, I would like to be very clear that I haven’t written this book as an answer to anything that happened to me.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"Although I have to say when it did happen to me, those who had already read the book in manuscript form were – are you clairvoyant? I wasn’t clairvoyant, I just – yeah, it was just one of those weird twists. Sometimes life imitates art more than one would like."<br />
<br />
But, no, it’s not – this isn’t about my experience of – as being a creator. My experience – if I wrote about my experience as a creator, it would look very different. And I have to say, for example – which I think will be a question readers would ask: the Potter fandom, by and large, has been amazing to me. Incredibly supportive and I still receive tonnes of love from the Potter fandom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So, the fandom in this book is very much not a portrait of the fandom. It is of a very – I think a very different kind of fandom," Rowling added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the recent past, Rowling has claimed that the similarities between her and the character in the book are mere coincidences.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rowling spoke to Graham Norton last week and said, "I should make it really clear after some of the things that have happened the last year that this is not depicting (that)."</p>

<p>"I had written the book before certain things happened to me online," she continued. "I said to my husband, 'I think everyone is going to see this as a response to what happened to me,' but it genuinely wasn't. The first draft of the book was finished at the point certain things happened."</p>


JK Rowling's new book is courting controversy even before its release. Rowling's new book 'The Ink Black Heart' has been termed transphobic with one of the main characters bearing eerie similarities to Rowling.

JK Rowling's new book is courting controversy even before its release. Rowling's new book 'The Ink Black Heart' has been termed transphobic with one of the main characters bearing eerie similarities to Rowling. The author has now denied that the character has been written inspired by her own experience. The character in the book dies after being persecuted online by trolls after one of the cartoons he has created is termed as racist, ableist, and transphobic. Rowling has written the book under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith. During a recent online session, Rowling denied that the controversial character was based on her own experience. Rowling has in the past been termed transphobic by LGBTQ+ advocates and multiple stars from the 'Harry Potter' franchise. She claimed to have received death threats even. Rowling stated that the concept for the book came long before she was criticized for her views. "I have never created a book – and this book certainly isn’t created from my own experience – you know, with a view to talking about my own life," she wrote online. "That doesn’t mean, of course, that your own life experience isn’t in the book."JK Rowling's new book's plot may seem too familiar to readers. Here's why Answering as her pen name, Rowling wrote, "With this book – I had been planning this book for so long and then a couple of the things that happen in this book have since happened to me. And so, I would like to be very clear that I haven’t written this book as an answer to anything that happened to me. "Although I have to say when it did happen to me, those who had already read the book in manuscript form were – are you clairvoyant? I wasn’t clairvoyant, I just – yeah, it was just one of those weird twists. Sometimes life imitates art more than one would like." But, no, it’s not – this isn’t about my experience of – as being a creator. My experience – if I wrote about my experience as a creator, it would look very different. And I have to say, for example – which I think will be a question readers would ask: the Potter fandom, by and large, has been amazing to me. Incredibly supportive and I still receive tonnes of love from the Potter fandom. "So, the fandom in this book is very much not a portrait of the fandom. It is of a very – I think a very different kind of fandom," Rowling added. In the recent past, Rowling has claimed that the similarities between her and the character in the book are mere coincidences. Rowling spoke to Graham Norton last week and said, "I should make it really clear after some of the things that have happened the last year that this is not depicting (that)." "I had written the book before certain things happened to me online," she continued. "I said to my husband, 'I think everyone is going to see this as a response to what happened to me,' but it genuinely wasn't. The first draft of the book was finished at the point certain things happened."

JK Rowling new book termed transphobic, author denies character based on her life experience

<p>Autobiographical or simply a coincidence? JK Rowling's new book 'The Ink Black Heart' has a story that may seem too familiar to her ardent fans and readers.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
According to reports, fans who have had a chance to go through the book seem to have drawn comparisons of the book with Rowling's personal life.<br />
<br />
The sixth book from the crime thriller series Cormoran Strike has been written under the author's pseudonym Robert Galbraith.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In the latest story, Edie Ledwell, a creator of a popular YouTube cartoon, is being persecuted online by trolls after one the cartoon termed as racist, ableist, and transphobic. Ultimately Ledwell is found dead afterwards, leading Cormoran and private detective Robin Ellacott on the hunt for the anonymous online persecutor.<br />
<br />
One would recall, that JK Rowling too has faced severe backlash and called transphobic in recent years. In 2019, Rowling had publicly supported Maya Forstater, a UK tax specialist who was fired over tweets that were deemed to be anti-trans. Then in 2020, she was accused of transphobia when she criticized an op-ed piece that discussed "people who menstruate" rather than using the term "women."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In the same year, she published a lengthy blog post on 'Her Reasons for Speaking out on Sex and Gender Issues.'&nbsp;While Rowling has since then repeatedly made her stance clear and stated that she isn't against the transgender community, the backlash has made several prominent celebrities distant themselves from the author.&nbsp;<br />
Fans are now convinced that Edie Ledwell's character is based on Rowling's life.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Rowling has in the past stated she has received death threats for being transphobic. "Endless death and rape threats, threats of loss of livelihood, employers targeted, physical harassment, family address posted online with a picture of the bomb-making manual aren't 'mean comments.' If you don't yet understand what happens to women who stand up on this issue, back off," wrote Rowling in July 2022.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Rowling has claimed that the similarities between her and Ledwell are mere coincidence.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Rowling spoke to Graham Norton last week and said, "I should make it really clear after some of the things that have happened the last year that this is not depicting (that)."<br />
<br />
"I had written the book before certain things happened to me online," she continued. "I said to my husband, 'I think everyone is going to see this as a response to what happened to me,' but it genuinely wasn't. The first draft of the book was finished at the point certain things happened."<br />
<br />
'The Ink Black Heart' released on Tuesday, August 30.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Autobiographical or simply a coincidence? JK Rowling's new book 'The Ink Black Heart' has a story that may seem too familiar to her ardent fans and readers. According to reports, fans who have had a chance to go through the book seem to have drawn comparisons of the book with Rowling's personal life.

Autobiographical or simply a coincidence? JK Rowling's new book 'The Ink Black Heart' has a story that may seem too familiar to her ardent fans and readers. According to reports, fans who have had a chance to go through the book seem to have drawn comparisons of the book with Rowling's personal life. The sixth book from the crime thriller series Cormoran Strike has been written under the author's pseudonym Robert Galbraith. In the latest story, Edie Ledwell, a creator of a popular YouTube cartoon, is being persecuted online by trolls after one the cartoon termed as racist, ableist, and transphobic. Ultimately Ledwell is found dead afterwards, leading Cormoran and private detective Robin Ellacott on the hunt for the anonymous online persecutor. One would recall, that JK Rowling too has faced severe backlash and called transphobic in recent years. In 2019, Rowling had publicly supported Maya Forstater, a UK tax specialist who was fired over tweets that were deemed to be anti-trans. Then in 2020, she was accused of transphobia when she criticized an op-ed piece that discussed "people who menstruate" rather than using the term "women." In the same year, she published a lengthy blog post on 'Her Reasons for Speaking out on Sex and Gender Issues.' While Rowling has since then repeatedly made her stance clear and stated that she isn't against the transgender community, the backlash has made several prominent celebrities distant themselves from the author. Fans are now convinced that Edie Ledwell's character is based on Rowling's life. Rowling has in the past stated she has received death threats for being transphobic. "Endless death and rape threats, threats of loss of livelihood, employers targeted, physical harassment, family address posted online with a picture of the bomb-making manual aren't 'mean comments.' If you don't yet understand what happens to women who stand up on this issue, back off," wrote Rowling in July 2022. Rowling has claimed that the similarities between her and Ledwell are mere coincidence. Rowling spoke to Graham Norton last week and said, "I should make it really clear after some of the things that have happened the last year that this is not depicting (that)." "I had written the book before certain things happened to me online," she continued. "I said to my husband, 'I think everyone is going to see this as a response to what happened to me,' but it genuinely wasn't. The first draft of the book was finished at the point certain things happened." 'The Ink Black Heart' released on Tuesday, August 30.

JK Rowling's new book's plot may seem too familiar to readers. Here's why

<p>English author JK Rowling, best known for the mega-selling fantasy book series 'Harry Potter', has clashed with fellow author Joanne Harris, known for 'Chocolat' over gender identity issues. Rowling has in the last few years earned the ire of trans community, activists, and allies for her allegedly 'transphobic' statements, though the author has denied the accusations and said that many positions taken by the trans community infringe upon the rights of biological women.</p>

<p>The recent controversy arose after Rowling voiced support for Salman Rushdie, the Booker Prize-winning Indian-born British-American author, who was recently stabbed by a lone assailant while attending an event in New York. But for her trouble, she was threatened with a similar fate by a Twitter user who wrote, "Don't worry, you're next." Rowling flagged the tweet and urged Twitter and law enforcement to take action.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Harris, head of the Society of Authors, did a poll in which she asked her "fellow authors" whether they have "ever received a death threat (credible or otherwise)." The options were 'Yes', 'Hell, yes', 'No, never' and 'Show me, dammit'. Many accused Harris of being flippant about a death threat. And Rowling herself, while speaking to The Times, said she was 'startled' to see the poll.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">So today I made the Times. The article is paywalled, but from what I can see, it is felt that as Chair of the <a href="https://twitter.com/Soc_of_Authors?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Soc_of_Authors</a>, I am not offering enough aid to gender-critical women who feel threatened for their beliefs. I can't believe I have to say this again, but here goes.</p>
— Joanne Harris (@Joannechocolat) <a href="https://twitter.com/Joannechocolat/status/1559431603696410625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I've received no communication whatsoever from Harris expressing sympathy for the death and rape threats I've received," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added that Harris has “consistently failed” to defend female authors who disagreed “with her personal position on gender identity ideology”, allowing the women to be intimidated.</p>

<p>Harris is a vocal proponent of trans rights. In response, she wrote on Twitter, "I’ve always said loud and clear that I condemn threats of any kind, to anyone. That goes for people whose views I disagree with as well as those whose views I share. Free speech is for everyone, and when one person loses it, we’re all at risk.”</p>

<p>She also said that her position on the gender-critical movement does not affect her belief in free speech.</p>


English author JK Rowling, best known for the mega-selling fantasy book series 'Harry Potter', has clashed with fellow author Joanne Harris, known for 'Chocolat' over gender identity issues.

English author JK Rowling, best known for the mega-selling fantasy book series 'Harry Potter', has clashed with fellow author Joanne Harris, known for 'Chocolat' over gender identity issues. Rowling has in the last few years earned the ire of trans community, activists, and allies for her allegedly 'transphobic' statements, though the author has denied the accusations and said that many positions taken by the trans community infringe upon the rights of biological women. The recent controversy arose after Rowling voiced support for Salman Rushdie, the Booker Prize-winning Indian-born British-American author, who was recently stabbed by a lone assailant while attending an event in New York. But for her trouble, she was threatened with a similar fate by a Twitter user who wrote, "Don't worry, you're next." Rowling flagged the tweet and urged Twitter and law enforcement to take action. Meanwhile, Harris, head of the Society of Authors, did a poll in which she asked her "fellow authors" whether they have "ever received a death threat (credible or otherwise)." The options were 'Yes', 'Hell, yes', 'No, never' and 'Show me, dammit'. Many accused Harris of being flippant about a death threat. And Rowling herself, while speaking to The Times, said she was 'startled' to see the poll. So today I made the Times. The article is paywalled, but from what I can see, it is felt that as Chair of the @Soc_of_Authors, I am not offering enough aid to gender-critical women who feel threatened for their beliefs. I can't believe I have to say this again, but here goes. — Joanne Harris (@Joannechocolat) August 16, 2022 × "I've received no communication whatsoever from Harris expressing sympathy for the death and rape threats I've received," she said. She added that Harris has “consistently failed” to defend female authors who disagreed “with her personal position on gender identity ideology”, allowing the women to be intimidated. Harris is a vocal proponent of trans rights. In response, she wrote on Twitter, "I’ve always said loud and clear that I condemn threats of any kind, to anyone. That goes for people whose views I disagree with as well as those whose views I share. Free speech is for everyone, and when one person loses it, we’re all at risk.” She also said that her position on the gender-critical movement does not affect her belief in free speech.

JK Rowling and Joanne Harris spar over trans rights, free speech

<p>Warner Bros&nbsp;Discovery, on Sunday, issued a statement to condemn the threats made against 'Harry Potter'&nbsp;creator JK&nbsp;Rowling. The British author started receiving online threats on a micro-blogging site&nbsp;after she wrote a tweet for&nbsp;Booker Prize-winning author Salman Rushdie. "Feeling very sick right now. Let him be ok," Rowling wrote while retweeting a news article about the horrific&nbsp;attack on Rushdie.</p>

<p>Warner Bros&nbsp;Discovery took a strong stand for Rowling and in a statement, they wrote, "Warner Bros&nbsp;Discovery strongly condemns the threats made against JK&nbsp;Rowling. We stand with her and all the authors, storytellers and creators who bravely express their creativity and opinions. WBD believes in freedom of expression, peaceful discourse and supporting those who offer their views in the public arena."</p>

<p>The statement further read, "Our thoughts are with Sir Salman Rushdie and his family following the senseless act of violence in New York. The company&nbsp;strongly condemns any form of threat, violence or intimidation when opinions, beliefs and thoughts might differ."</p>

<p>On Saturday, Rowling highlighted a threat tweet on her feed and asked for the platform's support. The threat tweet read, "Don’t worry you are next."&nbsp;Take a look!</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterSupport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TwitterSupport</a> any chance of some support? <a href="https://t.co/AoeCzmTKaU">pic.twitter.com/AoeCzmTKaU</a></p>
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling/status/1558438465284481024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-parents-to-be-ranbir-kapoor-alia-bhatt-return-home-from-italian-babymoon-506969" hreflang="en">Parents-to-be Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt return home from Italian babymoon</a></p>

<p>Salman Rushdie’s agent&nbsp;Andrew Wylie recently told Washington Post that Rushdie has been taken off a ventilator and can now talk. Meanwhile, the person accused of attacking the novelist,&nbsp;Hadi Matar, has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and remains in custody without bail.</p>


Warner Bros Discovery, on Sunday, issued a statement to condemn the threats made against 'Harry Potter' creator JK Rowling. The British author started receiving online threats on a micro-blogging site after she wrote a tweet for Booker Prize-winning author Salman Rushdie.

Warner Bros Discovery, on Sunday, issued a statement to condemn the threats made against 'Harry Potter' creator JK Rowling. The British author started receiving online threats on a micro-blogging site after she wrote a tweet for Booker Prize-winning author Salman Rushdie. "Feeling very sick right now. Let him be ok," Rowling wrote while retweeting a news article about the horrific attack on Rushdie. Warner Bros Discovery took a strong stand for Rowling and in a statement, they wrote, "Warner Bros Discovery strongly condemns the threats made against JK Rowling. We stand with her and all the authors, storytellers and creators who bravely express their creativity and opinions. WBD believes in freedom of expression, peaceful discourse and supporting those who offer their views in the public arena." The statement further read, "Our thoughts are with Sir Salman Rushdie and his family following the senseless act of violence in New York. The company strongly condemns any form of threat, violence or intimidation when opinions, beliefs and thoughts might differ." On Saturday, Rowling highlighted a threat tweet on her feed and asked for the platform's support. The threat tweet read, "Don’t worry you are next." Take a look! .@TwitterSupport any chance of some support? pic.twitter.com/AoeCzmTKaU — J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) August 13, 2022 Also read: Parents-to-be Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt return home from Italian babymoon Salman Rushdie’s agent Andrew Wylie recently told Washington Post that Rushdie has been taken off a ventilator and can now talk. Meanwhile, the person accused of attacking the novelist, Hadi Matar, has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and remains in custody without bail.

Warner Bros Discovery comes out in support of JK Rowling, condemns death threat

<p>British author JK Rowling&nbsp;received a death threat after she posted a message on Twitter denouncing the attack on Salman Rushdie.</p>

<p>Rowling said: "Horrifying news. Feeling very sick right now. Let him be ok." The author then posted screenshots of her replies after a Twitter user threatened her saying: "Don’t worry, you are next."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterSupport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TwitterSupport</a> any chance of some support? <a href="https://t.co/AoeCzmTKaU">pic.twitter.com/AoeCzmTKaU</a></p>
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling/status/1558438465284481024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rowling while raising safety concerns reported the matter to @TwitterSupport saying: "Any chance of some support?"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To all sending supportive messages: thank you 💕<br />
Police are involved (were already involved on other threats).</p>
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling/status/1558446312827256832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satan-on-the-way-to-hell-iranian-hardline-newspapers-praise-attack-on-salman-rushdie-506624">Also Read:&nbsp;Iranian hardline newspapers praise attack on Salman Rushdie</a></p>

<p>Reports say police are now investigating the death threat to&nbsp;Rowling. Meanwhile, Salman Rushdie remained hospitalised on Saturday after undergoing emergency surgery. Rushdie's book agent Andrew Wylie had said he is likely to lose an eye.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Rushdie on ventilator after a stabbing attack</strong></p>

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<p>President Joe Biden also condemned the "vicious" attack. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wished the India-born writer a speedy recovery&nbsp;and said: "No one should be threatened or harmed on the basis of what they have written."</p>

<p>Police identified 24-year-old man Hadi Matar from New Jersey as the assailant. Hadi allegedly rushed on stage and attacked Rushdie with a knife stabbing him multiple times. Rushdie suffered injuries in the neck and abdomen.</p>

<p>Hadi has been charged with attempt to murder. Reports claim Hadi pleaded not guilty&nbsp;in a New York court.</p>

<p>(With inputs from Agencies)</p>

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British author JK Rowling received a death threat after she posted a message on Twitter denouncing the attack on Salman Rushdie. Rowling said: "Horrifying news. Feeling very sick right now.

British author JK Rowling received a death threat after she posted a message on Twitter denouncing the attack on Salman Rushdie. Rowling said: "Horrifying news. Feeling very sick right now. Let him be ok." The author then posted screenshots of her replies after a Twitter user threatened her saying: "Don’t worry, you are next." .@TwitterSupport any chance of some support? pic.twitter.com/AoeCzmTKaU — J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) August 13, 2022 × Rowling while raising safety concerns reported the matter to @TwitterSupport saying: "Any chance of some support?" To all sending supportive messages: thank you 💕 Police are involved (were already involved on other threats). — J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) August 13, 2022 × Also Read: Iranian hardline newspapers praise attack on Salman Rushdie Reports say police are now investigating the death threat to Rowling. Meanwhile, Salman Rushdie remained hospitalised on Saturday after undergoing emergency surgery. Rushdie's book agent Andrew Wylie had said he is likely to lose an eye. Watch: Rushdie on ventilator after a stabbing attack President Joe Biden also condemned the "vicious" attack. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wished the India-born writer a speedy recovery and said: "No one should be threatened or harmed on the basis of what they have written." Police identified 24-year-old man Hadi Matar from New Jersey as the assailant. Hadi allegedly rushed on stage and attacked Rushdie with a knife stabbing him multiple times. Rushdie suffered injuries in the neck and abdomen. Hadi has been charged with attempt to murder. Reports claim Hadi pleaded not guilty in a New York court. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Don’t worry you are next': JK Rowling receives death threat after attack on Salman Rushdie

<p>Russian pranksters Vladimir Kuznetsov and Alexei Stoliarov, also known as 'Vovan and Lexus' tricked British writer JK Rowling by posing as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.</p>

<p>Revealing the video of the prank call at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Kuznetsov and Stoliarov told their audience they had questioned Rowling on 'cancel culture' and her opinions towards Russia.</p>

<p>The pranksters, who have also shared the video on the Russian video platform Rutube, said they targeted Rowling due to her own experience of 'cancel culture' and wanted to see if she held what they called a "hypocritical position" on Russia.</p>

<p>Comparing the scar on Harry Potter's forehead with the shape of the letter 'Z' (pro-Russian forces symbol), the Russian duo asked her is it possible to remove this scar considering the geopolitical situation.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowling-does-feature-in-harry-potter-reunion-special-but-theres-a-twist-441891">Also read |&nbsp;JK Rowling does feature in 'Harry Potter' reunion special but there's a twist</a></strong></p>

<p>Highlighting her support for Ukraine, Rowling said her Lumos Foundation is raising money for Ukrainian refugees.</p>

<p>In response, Stoliarov asked her, "Where are you sending money raised by Lumos? What we really like is modern weaponry. We want to buy more weapons and missiles with your money to destroy Russia's forces. I hope that you all will agree with it."</p>

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<p>Justifying her move, Rowling said "I think we will look after the children (with this money). But I really want Ukraine to have all the weapons it needs."&nbsp;</p>

<p>After making comments about transgender rights, the 'Harry Potter' author received widespread criticism on social media and beyond, leading many to describe her as "cancelled."</p>

<p>From former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Kuznetsov and Stolyarov have a long history of hoodwinking dozens of high-level politicians and influential world figures.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian pranksters Vladimir Kuznetsov and Alexei Stoliarov, also known as 'Vovan and Lexus' tricked British writer JK Rowling by posing as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Russian pranksters Vladimir Kuznetsov and Alexei Stoliarov, also known as 'Vovan and Lexus' tricked British writer JK Rowling by posing as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Revealing the video of the prank call at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Kuznetsov and Stoliarov told their audience they had questioned Rowling on 'cancel culture' and her opinions towards Russia. The pranksters, who have also shared the video on the Russian video platform Rutube, said they targeted Rowling due to her own experience of 'cancel culture' and wanted to see if she held what they called a "hypocritical position" on Russia. Comparing the scar on Harry Potter's forehead with the shape of the letter 'Z' (pro-Russian forces symbol), the Russian duo asked her is it possible to remove this scar considering the geopolitical situation. Also read | JK Rowling does feature in 'Harry Potter' reunion special but there's a twist Highlighting her support for Ukraine, Rowling said her Lumos Foundation is raising money for Ukrainian refugees. In response, Stoliarov asked her, "Where are you sending money raised by Lumos? What we really like is modern weaponry. We want to buy more weapons and missiles with your money to destroy Russia's forces. I hope that you all will agree with it." × Justifying her move, Rowling said "I think we will look after the children (with this money). But I really want Ukraine to have all the weapons it needs." After making comments about transgender rights, the 'Harry Potter' author received widespread criticism on social media and beyond, leading many to describe her as "cancelled." From former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Kuznetsov and Stolyarov have a long history of hoodwinking dozens of high-level politicians and influential world figures. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian pranksters trick JK Rowling by posing as Ukrainian President Zelensky

<p>The new year began with the cast and crew of 'Harry Potter' film series reuniting for a special to mark the 20th anniversary of the first film in the series 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone'.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The trailer of the reunion special listed actors and directors who would be a part of the special event including actors Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Helena Bonham&nbsp;Carter, Gary Oldman and others. The special, however, did not mention the name of author JK Rowling, on whose books the film series was based.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Rowling, though, did feature in the reunion special. Rowling may not have had a sit-down interview like others but the makers included old archival footage of the author from 2019 throughout the show. Rowling can be seen discussing the casting of the films and the process of turning her books into a screenplay for the blockbuster film franchise.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-nostalgic-trip-best-moments-from-the-harry-potter-reunion-special-441809" hreflang="en">A nostalgic trip! Best moments from the Harry Potter reunion special</a><br />
<br />
Rowling has drawn severe criticism the past two years due to her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowling-compares-transgender-hormone-replacement-to-gay-conversion-therapy-draws-criticism-311070">comments on the trans community. </a>Many felt she was transphobic even though she gave a clarification following the backlash.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Excluding Rowling did not come as a surprise to many as many assumed that HBO and Warner Bros. wanted to avoid controversy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-emma-watson-or-emma-roberts-internet-reacts-to-harry-potter-reunion-photo-goof-up-441820" hreflang="en">Emma Watson or Emma Roberts? Internet reacts to Harry Potter reunion photo goof up</a><br />
<br />
Recent reports on the internet though claim that Rowling herself turned down the offer to feature in the reunion special. She and her team reportedly felt that old footage of her would be adequate. The same team states that the controversy around her comments of transgenders had no part to play in her refusal to join the special.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
HBO Max, meanwhile, confirmed they reached out to Rowling but wound up agreeing that her old clips would suffice.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-daniel-radcliffe--emma-watson-gave-each-other-dating-tips-on-harry-potter-set-441607" hreflang="en">Daniel Radcliffe &amp; Emma Watson gave each other dating tips on Harry Potter set</a></p>


The new year began with the cast and crew of 'Harry Potter' film series reuniting for a special to mark the 20th anniversary of the first film in the series 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone'.

The new year began with the cast and crew of 'Harry Potter' film series reuniting for a special to mark the 20th anniversary of the first film in the series 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone'. The trailer of the reunion special listed actors and directors who would be a part of the special event including actors Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Helena Bonham Carter, Gary Oldman and others. The special, however, did not mention the name of author JK Rowling, on whose books the film series was based. Rowling, though, did feature in the reunion special. Rowling may not have had a sit-down interview like others but the makers included old archival footage of the author from 2019 throughout the show. Rowling can be seen discussing the casting of the films and the process of turning her books into a screenplay for the blockbuster film franchise. A nostalgic trip! Best moments from the Harry Potter reunion special Rowling has drawn severe criticism the past two years due to her comments on the trans community. Many felt she was transphobic even though she gave a clarification following the backlash. Excluding Rowling did not come as a surprise to many as many assumed that HBO and Warner Bros. wanted to avoid controversy. Emma Watson or Emma Roberts? Internet reacts to Harry Potter reunion photo goof up Recent reports on the internet though claim that Rowling herself turned down the offer to feature in the reunion special. She and her team reportedly felt that old footage of her would be adequate. The same team states that the controversy around her comments of transgenders had no part to play in her refusal to join the special. HBO Max, meanwhile, confirmed they reached out to Rowling but wound up agreeing that her old clips would suffice. Daniel Radcliffe & Emma Watson gave each other dating tips on Harry Potter set

JK Rowling does feature in 'Harry Potter' reunion special but there's a twist

<p>It is finally out! The trailer of the highly anticipated Harry Potter Reunion special is out. On Monday evening, HBO Max released a much-anticipated preview of 'Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts' that takes fans down the memory lane along with the cast of the popular movie franchise.<br />
<br />
The upcoming special will reunite the actors and filmmakers from the eight-movie series, which will stream on January 1.<br />
<br />
The trailer shows the film's principal cast- Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint reminiscing their time on the sets. Watson says, "It feels like no time has passed -- and loads of time has passed." Radcliffe says that something that had scared him was "the implication that the most meaningful thing in our life was done", and that seeing everyone is "joyous", he realises "it wasn`t though".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/20-years-of-harry-potter-8-fun-facts-about-the-film-420727">20 Years Of Harry Potter: 8 fun facts about the film</a><br />
<br />
The trailer also gives a glimpse of other actors- Helena Bonham Carter, Tom Felton, Gary Oldman, James Phelps, Oliver Phelps, Mark Williams, Bonnie Wright, Alfred Enoch, Matthew Lewis among others.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The only person missing from the reunion will be JK Rowling, the author of the books on which the films were based. Rowling has been under attack for remarks she had made about the trans community a year ago after retweeting an op-ed article on 'people who menstruate'.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Old memories shared. New memories made.<br />
<br />
Come celebrate the magic when Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReturnToHogwarts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReturnToHogwarts</a> arrives on New Year’s Day, only on HBO Max. <a href="https://t.co/b0b6EQWoO9">pic.twitter.com/b0b6EQWoO9</a></p>
— HBO Max (@hbomax) <a href="https://twitter.com/hbomax/status/1472959993666277376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The multi-millionaire author now claims to be a victim of the 'cancel culture' and calls herself a TERF -- or 'trans exclusionary radical feminist'.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/20-years-of-harry-potter-a-look-at-the-cast-members-where-they-are-now-430237">20 years of Harry Potter! A look at the cast members &amp; where they are now</a><br />
<br />
'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' was the first film on the series and was released in November 2001. The reunion special will commemorate the franchise's 20th anniversary.<br />
<br />
The special was taped at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London where the film was also shot.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Filmmakers David Heyman, Chris Columbus, Alfonso Cuarón, Mike Newell and David Yates will also make appearances at the reunion.</p>


It is finally out! The trailer of the highly anticipated Harry Potter Reunion special is out. On Monday evening, HBO Max released a much-anticipated preview of 'Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts' that takes fans down the memory lane along with the cast of the popular movie franchise.

It is finally out! The trailer of the highly anticipated Harry Potter Reunion special is out. On Monday evening, HBO Max released a much-anticipated preview of 'Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts' that takes fans down the memory lane along with the cast of the popular movie franchise. The upcoming special will reunite the actors and filmmakers from the eight-movie series, which will stream on January 1. The trailer shows the film's principal cast- Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint reminiscing their time on the sets. Watson says, "It feels like no time has passed -- and loads of time has passed." Radcliffe says that something that had scared him was "the implication that the most meaningful thing in our life was done", and that seeing everyone is "joyous", he realises "it wasn`t though". 20 Years Of Harry Potter: 8 fun facts about the film The trailer also gives a glimpse of other actors- Helena Bonham Carter, Tom Felton, Gary Oldman, James Phelps, Oliver Phelps, Mark Williams, Bonnie Wright, Alfred Enoch, Matthew Lewis among others. The only person missing from the reunion will be JK Rowling, the author of the books on which the films were based. Rowling has been under attack for remarks she had made about the trans community a year ago after retweeting an op-ed article on 'people who menstruate'. Old memories shared. New memories made. Come celebrate the magic when Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: #ReturnToHogwarts arrives on New Year’s Day, only on HBO Max. pic.twitter.com/b0b6EQWoO9 — HBO Max (@hbomax) December 20, 2021 × The multi-millionaire author now claims to be a victim of the 'cancel culture' and calls herself a TERF -- or 'trans exclusionary radical feminist'. 20 years of Harry Potter! A look at the cast members & where they are now 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' was the first film on the series and was released in November 2001. The reunion special will commemorate the franchise's 20th anniversary. The special was taped at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London where the film was also shot. Filmmakers David Heyman, Chris Columbus, Alfonso Cuarón, Mike Newell and David Yates will also make appearances at the reunion.

'Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts' trailer out! Takes fans down memory lane

<p>Author JK Rowling slammed three transgender rights activists on Twitter on Monday as they posted her home address on social media.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Rowling alleged that she was flooded with death threats after her address was leaked online. The activists on Friday had tweeted a photograph of them standing outside Rowling's home in Edinburgh where the address was clearly visible.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Thanking police in Scotland, the author said that women like herself who have spoken on gender issues had faced "campaigns of intimidation", stalking and harassment always but she vowed not to be silent.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The 56-year-old writer said she had received "so many death threats I could paper the house with them", and that "families have been put into a state of fear and distress" by transgender activists.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-jk-rowling-will-not-be-part-of-harry-potter-reunion-special-heres-why-430001">JK Rowling will not be part of Harry Potter reunion special. Here's why</a><br />
<br />
"Perhaps... the best way to prove your movement isn't a threat to women, is to stop stalking, harassing and threatening us."<br />
<br />
A Police Scotland spokesperson told a news agency that the force was "aware of this incident" and that enquiries were "ongoing". All three activists had shut down their Twitter accounts by Monday.<br />
<br />
Rowling has been embroiled in a simmering controversy since past last year over her tweet which many felt was anti-trans community.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The dispute began when the author tweeted against the use of the phrase "people who menstruate", rather than only women. Many had pointed out to the author that even Transwomen menstruate. Rowling had eventually defended her stance on the matter but it caused a rift with some of the stars of the 'Harry Potter' movies, including lead actor Daniel Radcliffe, who tweeted an apology on her behalf.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowlings-handprint-vandalised-with-red-paint-amid-transphobic-row-312886">JK Rowling's handprint vandalised with red paint amid 'transphobic' row</a></p>

<p>As the movie series completed 20 years last week, an HBO Max reunion was announced which would feature the cast and crew of the films. Rowling's name is not part of the lineup of stars that will see Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint in attendance along with others.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/20-years-of-harry-potter-a-look-at-the-cast-members-where-they-are-now-430237">20 years of Harry Potter! A look at the cast members &amp; where they are now</a></p>


Author JK Rowling slammed three transgender rights activists on Twitter on Monday as they posted her home address on social media. Rowling alleged that she was flooded with death threats after her address was leaked online.

Author JK Rowling slammed three transgender rights activists on Twitter on Monday as they posted her home address on social media. Rowling alleged that she was flooded with death threats after her address was leaked online. The activists on Friday had tweeted a photograph of them standing outside Rowling's home in Edinburgh where the address was clearly visible. Thanking police in Scotland, the author said that women like herself who have spoken on gender issues had faced "campaigns of intimidation", stalking and harassment always but she vowed not to be silent. The 56-year-old writer said she had received "so many death threats I could paper the house with them", and that "families have been put into a state of fear and distress" by transgender activists. JK Rowling will not be part of Harry Potter reunion special. Here's why "Perhaps... the best way to prove your movement isn't a threat to women, is to stop stalking, harassing and threatening us." A Police Scotland spokesperson told a news agency that the force was "aware of this incident" and that enquiries were "ongoing". All three activists had shut down their Twitter accounts by Monday. Rowling has been embroiled in a simmering controversy since past last year over her tweet which many felt was anti-trans community. The dispute began when the author tweeted against the use of the phrase "people who menstruate", rather than only women. Many had pointed out to the author that even Transwomen menstruate. Rowling had eventually defended her stance on the matter but it caused a rift with some of the stars of the 'Harry Potter' movies, including lead actor Daniel Radcliffe, who tweeted an apology on her behalf. JK Rowling's handprint vandalised with red paint amid 'transphobic' row As the movie series completed 20 years last week, an HBO Max reunion was announced which would feature the cast and crew of the films. Rowling's name is not part of the lineup of stars that will see Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint in attendance along with others. (With inputs from agencies) 20 years of Harry Potter! A look at the cast members & where they are now

JK Rowling slams a group of transgender activists as they leak her address on Twitter

<p>It's been 20 years since Harry Potter and his wizarding world hit the big screen. To mark the 20th anniversary of the first film of the hit franchise 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone', HBO max announced that the cast of the film would be coming together for a reunion.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The news, which was announced on Tuesday, was obviously welcomed by eager fans the world over.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Interestingly, while the announcement mentioned the names of almost the entire cast and crew of the film coming together, it did not mention writer JK Rowling's name. Rowling wrote the hugely successful 'Harry Potter' books- on which the films were based.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-harry-potter-original-cast-to-reunite-for-anniversary-special-details-inside-429935" hreflang="en">Harry Potter original cast to reunite for anniversary special; details inside</a><br />
<br />
So far no reason has been cited for Rowling's absence from the reunion but it is now a well-known fact that the author has faced a lot of bad press in the recent past.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rupert-grint-reveals-why-he-spoke-out-on-jk-rowlings-anti-trans-comments-371862">Rupert Grint reveals why he spoke out on JK Rowling’s anti-trans comments</a><br />
<br />
In 2020, Rowling faced major backlash for speaking out <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowling-compares-transgender-hormone-replacement-to-gay-conversion-therapy-draws-criticism-311070">against the trans-inclusionary language</a> used in an article that referred to people<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/harry-potter-author-j-k-rowling-receives-flak-for-transgender-tweet-269282"> who menstruate instead of women.&nbsp;</a><br />
<br />
The author had tweeted which suggest that the men who transition to women aren't truly women because the 'lived reality' of being a woman is inherently different to being born a man and then changing biological sex later in life.<br />
Having faced severe backlash for her tweet, Rowling later clarified that she did support transgender people but the explanation came too late, many felt.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Her doubled downed comments were rebuked by her Harry Potter stars including actor Daniel Radcliffe.<br />
<br />
"Transgender women are women," he said. "Any statement to the contrary erases the identity and dignity of transgender people and goes against all advice given by professional health care associations who have far more expertise on this subject matter than either Jo or I."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowling-to-return-human-rights-award-over-transgender-backlash-323950">JK Rowling to return human rights award over transgender backlash</a><br />
<br />
Emma Watson and Rupert Grint too spoke in support of the trans community.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint will feature in HBO Max's 'Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts'. The reunion will also feature Sorcerer's Stone director Chris Columbus, and actors Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltrane, Ralph Fiennes, Jason Isaacs, Gary Oldman, Imelda Staunton, Tom Felton, James Phelps, Oliver Phelps, Mark Williams, Bonnie Wright, Alfred Enoch, Matthew Lewis, Evanna Lynch and Ian Hart.</p>


It's been 20 years since Harry Potter and his wizarding world hit the big screen. To mark the 20th anniversary of the first film of the hit franchise 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone', HBO max announced that the cast of the film would be coming together for a reunion.

It's been 20 years since Harry Potter and his wizarding world hit the big screen. To mark the 20th anniversary of the first film of the hit franchise 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone', HBO max announced that the cast of the film would be coming together for a reunion. The news, which was announced on Tuesday, was obviously welcomed by eager fans the world over. Interestingly, while the announcement mentioned the names of almost the entire cast and crew of the film coming together, it did not mention writer JK Rowling's name. Rowling wrote the hugely successful 'Harry Potter' books- on which the films were based. Harry Potter original cast to reunite for anniversary special; details inside So far no reason has been cited for Rowling's absence from the reunion but it is now a well-known fact that the author has faced a lot of bad press in the recent past. Rupert Grint reveals why he spoke out on JK Rowling’s anti-trans comments In 2020, Rowling faced major backlash for speaking out against the trans-inclusionary language used in an article that referred to people who menstruate instead of women. The author had tweeted which suggest that the men who transition to women aren't truly women because the 'lived reality' of being a woman is inherently different to being born a man and then changing biological sex later in life. Having faced severe backlash for her tweet, Rowling later clarified that she did support transgender people but the explanation came too late, many felt. Her doubled downed comments were rebuked by her Harry Potter stars including actor Daniel Radcliffe. "Transgender women are women," he said. "Any statement to the contrary erases the identity and dignity of transgender people and goes against all advice given by professional health care associations who have far more expertise on this subject matter than either Jo or I." JK Rowling to return human rights award over transgender backlash Emma Watson and Rupert Grint too spoke in support of the trans community. Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint will feature in HBO Max's 'Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts'. The reunion will also feature Sorcerer's Stone director Chris Columbus, and actors Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltrane, Ralph Fiennes, Jason Isaacs, Gary Oldman, Imelda Staunton, Tom Felton, James Phelps, Oliver Phelps, Mark Williams, Bonnie Wright, Alfred Enoch, Matthew Lewis, Evanna Lynch and Ian Hart.

JK Rowling will not be part of Harry Potter reunion special. Here's why

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone is all set to complete 20 years in November 2021. Chris Columbus' directorial shattered all the records by becoming the highest-grossing film in 2001. To celebrate the moment, we have listed 8 unknown facts about the film.

20 Years Of Harry Potter: 8 fun facts about the film

<p>JK Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ latest spinoff film released its title and release date.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The film will be called ‘Fantastic Beasts 3: The Secrets of Dumbledore’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Based on the life of one of the most important characters in the Harry Potter franchise, Dumbledore, the film’s title has raked a unique reaction from internet users. Many joked&nbsp;that the film will show&nbsp;Dumbeldore as gay and the film will reveal the&nbsp;secret of his sexuality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There was then an onslaught of gay jokes and rumours about the titular wizard and Hogwarts headmaster. The topic for this speculation is rooted in JK Rowling’s previous statements that some say she made to sound ‘woke’. Weeks after the announcement of her Harry Potter book in 2007, the author had said that Dumbledore was gay, despite the books themselves offering no clues as to the wizard’s sexuality. Furthermore, she suggested that Dumbledore once had a homosexual relationship with Gellert Grindlewald, who features in the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ movies. However, none of the films have mentioned this either.</p>

<p>JK Rowling was criticised for inserting a ‘woke’ subtext to her stories when in fact they had no such mention in the books. She had also said that there was at least one Jewish wizard at Hogwarts and that Hermoine may have been black despite the author describing her as a white girl in her books.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowling-busts-myth-around-the-origin-of-the-harry-potter-series-and-its-characters-301171">JK Rowling busts myth around the origin of the Harry Potter series and its characters</a></p>

<p>The Harry Potter author is now not in good books of the trans community too after she opposed gender-neutral languages arguing that it “erases” the concept of sex and thus womanhood. She has, since then, got <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowlings-handprint-vandalised-with-red-paint-amid-transphobic-row-312886">death threats from some trans activists</a> and faced backlash on the internet by many of her fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the new spinoff film ‘Fantastic Beasts 3: The Secrets of Dumbledore’ will release on April 15, 2022. The franchise of films has been adapted from a guidebook on the magical creatures of Harry Potter’s world. This was released in 2001 and served as prequels to the main Harry Potter story.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-new-jk-rowling-childrens-book-coming-in-october-377347">Also Read:&nbsp;New JK Rowling children's book coming in October</a></p>


JK Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ latest spinoff film released its title and release date. The film will be called ‘Fantastic Beasts 3: The Secrets of Dumbledore’. Based on the life of one of the most important characters in the Harry Potter franchise, Dumbledore, the film’s title has raked a unique reaction from internet users.

JK Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ latest spinoff film released its title and release date. The film will be called ‘Fantastic Beasts 3: The Secrets of Dumbledore’. Based on the life of one of the most important characters in the Harry Potter franchise, Dumbledore, the film’s title has raked a unique reaction from internet users. Many joked that the film will show Dumbeldore as gay and the film will reveal the secret of his sexuality. There was then an onslaught of gay jokes and rumours about the titular wizard and Hogwarts headmaster. The topic for this speculation is rooted in JK Rowling’s previous statements that some say she made to sound ‘woke’. Weeks after the announcement of her Harry Potter book in 2007, the author had said that Dumbledore was gay, despite the books themselves offering no clues as to the wizard’s sexuality. Furthermore, she suggested that Dumbledore once had a homosexual relationship with Gellert Grindlewald, who features in the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ movies. However, none of the films have mentioned this either. JK Rowling was criticised for inserting a ‘woke’ subtext to her stories when in fact they had no such mention in the books. She had also said that there was at least one Jewish wizard at Hogwarts and that Hermoine may have been black despite the author describing her as a white girl in her books. JK Rowling busts myth around the origin of the Harry Potter series and its characters The Harry Potter author is now not in good books of the trans community too after she opposed gender-neutral languages arguing that it “erases” the concept of sex and thus womanhood. She has, since then, got death threats from some trans activists and faced backlash on the internet by many of her fans. Meanwhile, the new spinoff film ‘Fantastic Beasts 3: The Secrets of Dumbledore’ will release on April 15, 2022. The franchise of films has been adapted from a guidebook on the magical creatures of Harry Potter’s world. This was released in 2001 and served as prequels to the main Harry Potter story. Also Read: New JK Rowling children's book coming in October

Harry Potter spinoff 'Fantastic Beasts 3' title starts a thread on gay jokes, targets JK Rowling

<p>Harry Potter fans will soon get to clink glasses filled with "buttery, creamy, sugary, delicious" butterbeers at an official Harry Potter flagship store in New York City, which opens on June 3.<br />
<br />
Actress Evanna Lynch, who played Luna Lovegood in the 'Harry Potter'&nbsp;film series, likened the taste to butterscotch.<br />
"Butterbeer is the drink that all the Hogwarts students drink," she said.<br />
<br />
Lynch said she was thrilled that the bottled butterbeer - which is non-alcoholic - came in a vegan version.<br />
<br />
"I actually didn`t drink any butterbeer in the movies," she said. "That`s more for like the cool kids, the Gryffindors."<br />
<br />
When Harry Potter New York officially opens its doors to the public on June 3, customers will be able to choose from draft or bottled butterbeers and eat butterbeer ice cream. Nearly 1,000 bottles hover over the bar while butterbeer moves through copper pipes.<br />
The retail store, at over 21,000 square feet (1,950 square meters) and spanning three floors, will also sell a huge collection of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts products.<br />
<br />
Author JK Rowling`s seven 'Harry Potter'&nbsp;novels about a boy wizard have sold more than 500 million copies worldwide and were turned into eight blockbuster movies. She followed up with a spin-off movie franchise, 'Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them.'</p>


Harry Potter fans will soon get to clink glasses filled with "buttery, creamy, sugary, delicious" butterbeers at an official Harry Potter flagship store in New York City, which opens on June 3.

Harry Potter fans will soon get to clink glasses filled with "buttery, creamy, sugary, delicious" butterbeers at an official Harry Potter flagship store in New York City, which opens on June 3. Actress Evanna Lynch, who played Luna Lovegood in the 'Harry Potter' film series, likened the taste to butterscotch. "Butterbeer is the drink that all the Hogwarts students drink," she said. Lynch said she was thrilled that the bottled butterbeer - which is non-alcoholic - came in a vegan version. "I actually didn`t drink any butterbeer in the movies," she said. "That`s more for like the cool kids, the Gryffindors." When Harry Potter New York officially opens its doors to the public on June 3, customers will be able to choose from draft or bottled butterbeers and eat butterbeer ice cream. Nearly 1,000 bottles hover over the bar while butterbeer moves through copper pipes. The retail store, at over 21,000 square feet (1,950 square meters) and spanning three floors, will also sell a huge collection of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts products. Author JK Rowling`s seven 'Harry Potter' novels about a boy wizard have sold more than 500 million copies worldwide and were turned into eight blockbuster movies. She followed up with a spin-off movie franchise, 'Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them.'

'Buttery, creamy, sugary, delicious': Sneak peek of Harry Potter's butterbeer in NYC

<p>Harry Potter author JK Rowling will release a new children's book entitled "The Christmas Pig" this autumn, her publishers announced on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Scottish author's latest will be released simultaneously in 20 different countries and multiple languages on October 12, French publisher Gallimard said.</p>

<p>It will tell the story of a young boy named Jack, who goes to extreme lengths to find his stuffed toy pig, and is aimed at children of eight years and up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will have been less than a year since Rowling, 55, released her last book, a fairy tale titled "The Ickabog" -- though that was her first children's book since the seventh and final instalment of Harry Potter in 2007.</p>

<p>In the interim, she released several novels for adults, which have proved popular, albeit not on the world-changing scale of those about the boy-wizard.</p>


Harry Potter author JK Rowling will release a new children's book entitled "The Christmas Pig" this autumn, her publishers announced on Tuesday. The Scottish author's latest will be released simultaneously in 20 different countries and multiple languages on October 12, French publisher Gallimard said.

Harry Potter author JK Rowling will release a new children's book entitled "The Christmas Pig" this autumn, her publishers announced on Tuesday. The Scottish author's latest will be released simultaneously in 20 different countries and multiple languages on October 12, French publisher Gallimard said. It will tell the story of a young boy named Jack, who goes to extreme lengths to find his stuffed toy pig, and is aimed at children of eight years and up. It will have been less than a year since Rowling, 55, released her last book, a fairy tale titled "The Ickabog" -- though that was her first children's book since the seventh and final instalment of Harry Potter in 2007. In the interim, she released several novels for adults, which have proved popular, albeit not on the world-changing scale of those about the boy-wizard.

New JK Rowling children's book coming in October

<p>Last year, Rupert Grint <a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/rupert-grint-on-jk-rowlings-gender-comments-trans-women-are-women-trans-men-are-men-306092">called out</a> 'Harry Potter' author JK Rowling&nbsp;for her comments towards the transgender community. Now, Grint revealed why he spoke out on Rowling’s harsh comment.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
During an interview with Esquire, the 32-year-old actor said, ''I am hugely grateful for everything that she’s done. I think that she’s extremely talented, and I mean, clearly, her works are genius,” he first says. “But yeah, I think also you can have huge respect for someone and still disagree with things like that.”<br />
<br />
On why he spoke out, Rupert added, ''Sometimes silence is even louder, I felt like I had to because I think it was important to. I mean, I don’t want to talk about all that…Generally, I’m not an authority on the subject,”. “Just out of kindness, and just respecting people. I think it’s a valuable group that I think needs standing up for,” he said.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The 54-year-old author faced backlash last year after posting a series of tweets that were described as “anti-trans”, Rowling wrote last year, "If sex isn`t real, there`s no same-sex attraction. If sex isn`t real, the lived reality of women globally is erased. I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives. It doesn`t hate to speak the truth."<br />
<br />
Responding to which, Grint, who played Ron Weasley in the 'Harry Potter' films, wrote."I firmly stand with the trans community and echo the sentiments expressed by many of my peers. Trans women are women. Trans men are men. We should all be entitled to live with love and without judgment."</p>


Last year, Rupert Grint called out 'Harry Potter' author JK Rowling for her comments towards the transgender community. Now, Grint revealed why he spoke out on Rowling’s harsh comment.

Last year, Rupert Grint called out 'Harry Potter' author JK Rowling for her comments towards the transgender community. Now, Grint revealed why he spoke out on Rowling’s harsh comment. During an interview with Esquire, the 32-year-old actor said, ''I am hugely grateful for everything that she’s done. I think that she’s extremely talented, and I mean, clearly, her works are genius,” he first says. “But yeah, I think also you can have huge respect for someone and still disagree with things like that.” On why he spoke out, Rupert added, ''Sometimes silence is even louder, I felt like I had to because I think it was important to. I mean, I don’t want to talk about all that…Generally, I’m not an authority on the subject,”. “Just out of kindness, and just respecting people. I think it’s a valuable group that I think needs standing up for,” he said. The 54-year-old author faced backlash last year after posting a series of tweets that were described as “anti-trans”, Rowling wrote last year, "If sex isn`t real, there`s no same-sex attraction. If sex isn`t real, the lived reality of women globally is erased. I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives. It doesn`t hate to speak the truth." Responding to which, Grint, who played Ron Weasley in the 'Harry Potter' films, wrote."I firmly stand with the trans community and echo the sentiments expressed by many of my peers. Trans women are women. Trans men are men. We should all be entitled to live with love and without judgment."

Rupert Grint reveals why he spoke out on JK Rowling’s anti-trans comments

<p>JK Rowling’s stance on transgender rights stoked a controversy last year and ‘Harry Potter’ actor Ralph Fiennes now has something to say on the heated issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ralph Fiennes played the role of Lord Voldemort across four Harry Potter films and he has now expressed sympathy for the author of the book on which films were made.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "I can’t understand the vitriol directed at her. I can understand the heat of an argument, but I find this age of accusation and the need to condemn irrational. I find the level of hatred that people express about views that differ from theirs, and the violence of language towards others, disturbing."</p>

<p>The controversy began in June 2020, when the author first tweeted about an op-ed piece regarding “people who menstruate" and mocked the story for not using the word "women." The tweet got her major backlash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>JK Rowling had then said, "I know and love trans people," and added that she’s been empathetic to trans people for decades."</p>

<p>Soon after the backlash, actors from Harry Potter films voiced their support for trans community with Daniel Radcliffe stating, "I realize that certain press outlets will probably want to paint this as in-fighting between J.K. Rowling and myself, but that is really not what this is about, nor is it what’s important right now. ... Transgender women are women. Any statement to the contrary erases the identity and dignity of transgender people and goes against all advice given by professional health care associations who have far more expertise on this subject matter than either Jo or I. ... To all the people who now feel that their experience of the books has been tarnished or diminished, I am deeply sorry for the pain these comments have caused you. I really hope that you don’t entirely lose what was valuable in these stories to you. … And in my opinion, nobody can touch that."</p>

<p>Emma Watson had said, "Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned or told they aren’t who they say they are. I want my trans followers to know that I and so many other people around the world see you, respect you, and love you for who you are."</p>


JK Rowling’s stance on transgender rights stoked a controversy last year and ‘Harry Potter’ actor Ralph Fiennes now has something to say on the heated issue. Ralph Fiennes played the role of Lord Voldemort across four Harry Potter films and he has now expressed sympathy for the author of the book on which films were made.

JK Rowling’s stance on transgender rights stoked a controversy last year and ‘Harry Potter’ actor Ralph Fiennes now has something to say on the heated issue. Ralph Fiennes played the role of Lord Voldemort across four Harry Potter films and he has now expressed sympathy for the author of the book on which films were made. He said, "I can’t understand the vitriol directed at her. I can understand the heat of an argument, but I find this age of accusation and the need to condemn irrational. I find the level of hatred that people express about views that differ from theirs, and the violence of language towards others, disturbing." The controversy began in June 2020, when the author first tweeted about an op-ed piece regarding “people who menstruate" and mocked the story for not using the word "women." The tweet got her major backlash. JK Rowling had then said, "I know and love trans people," and added that she’s been empathetic to trans people for decades." Soon after the backlash, actors from Harry Potter films voiced their support for trans community with Daniel Radcliffe stating, "I realize that certain press outlets will probably want to paint this as in-fighting between J.K. Rowling and myself, but that is really not what this is about, nor is it what’s important right now. ... Transgender women are women. Any statement to the contrary erases the identity and dignity of transgender people and goes against all advice given by professional health care associations who have far more expertise on this subject matter than either Jo or I. ... To all the people who now feel that their experience of the books has been tarnished or diminished, I am deeply sorry for the pain these comments have caused you. I really hope that you don’t entirely lose what was valuable in these stories to you. … And in my opinion, nobody can touch that." Emma Watson had said, "Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned or told they aren’t who they say they are. I want my trans followers to know that I and so many other people around the world see you, respect you, and love you for who you are."

'Harry Potter' actor Ralph Fiennes sides with JK Rowling over transphobic tweet, calls backlash 'disturbing'

<p>'Harry Potter' star Rupert Grint is finally on Instagram. The actor made his debut on Tuesday with an adorable photo of his new born daughter.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The 32-year-old actor's first post had him taking a selfie, holding his newborn in his arm.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Admitting that he is only '10 years late' to the photo-sharing platform, Grint wrote, "Grint on the Gram! Here to introduce you all to Wednesday G. Grint. Stay safe, Rupert.”&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CHaijlLHDei/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Hey Instagram....only 10 years late, but here I am. Grint on the Gram! Here to introduce you all to Wednesday G. Grint. Stay safe, Rupert</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rupertgrint/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Rupert Grint</a> (@rupertgrint) on <time datetime="2020-11-10T15:07:26+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Nov 10, 2020 at 7:07am PST</time></p>
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<p>The post has got over 1.4 million likes so far and Grint, in a short span since his debut, has gained 1.8 million followers.<br />
<br />
Grint and his girlfriend Georgia Groom welcomed their first child together in May earlier this year. The couple have named the baby Wednesday as Grint revealed on Instagram.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Best known for playing Ron Weasely in the 'Harry Potter' movies, Grint was recently in news for his comments on JK Rowling's controversy around Transgender community.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Criticising Rowling for her comments, Grint had said "I firmly stand with the trans community and echo the sentiments expressed by many of my peers. Trans women are women. Trans men are men. We should all be entitled to live with love and without judgment."<br />
&nbsp;</p>


'Harry Potter' star Rupert Grint is finally on Instagram. The actor made his debut on Tuesday with an adorable photo of his new born daughter. The 32-year-old actor's first post had him taking a selfie, holding his newborn in his arm.

'Harry Potter' star Rupert Grint is finally on Instagram. The actor made his debut on Tuesday with an adorable photo of his new born daughter. The 32-year-old actor's first post had him taking a selfie, holding his newborn in his arm. Admitting that he is only '10 years late' to the photo-sharing platform, Grint wrote, "Grint on the Gram! Here to introduce you all to Wednesday G. Grint. Stay safe, Rupert.” View this post on Instagram Hey Instagram....only 10 years late, but here I am. Grint on the Gram! Here to introduce you all to Wednesday G. Grint. Stay safe, Rupert A post shared by Rupert Grint (@rupertgrint) on Nov 10, 2020 at 7:07am PST × The post has got over 1.4 million likes so far and Grint, in a short span since his debut, has gained 1.8 million followers. Grint and his girlfriend Georgia Groom welcomed their first child together in May earlier this year. The couple have named the baby Wednesday as Grint revealed on Instagram. Best known for playing Ron Weasely in the 'Harry Potter' movies, Grint was recently in news for his comments on JK Rowling's controversy around Transgender community. Criticising Rowling for her comments, Grint had said "I firmly stand with the trans community and echo the sentiments expressed by many of my peers. Trans women are women. Trans men are men. We should all be entitled to live with love and without judgment."

Rupert Grint makes Instagram debut, reveals daughter's unique name in first post

<p>Harry Potter fans can now visit eleven locations honoured as 'Quidditch towns' across the United Kingdom and Ireland for wonderful staycations.</p>

<p>The locations in these towns have been honored with&nbsp;banners to mark the launch of a new sporting companion book to the Harry Potter series.</p>

<p>Written by J.K. Rowling and illustrated by Emily Gravett, "Quidditch&nbsp;Through The Ages Illustrated Edition" launches on Tuesday and features the UK towns of Holyhead, Falmouth, Ballycastle and Montrose among others, complete with their fictitious teams of the Holyhead Harpies, the Falmouth Falcons, Ballycastle Bats and the Montrose Magpies.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/harry-potter-flies-in-london-playing-quidditch-over-leicester-square-331934/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The decorative&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;banners bearing the crest and team name were presented in mayoral ceremonies and social-distanced celebrations across the UK and Ireland at iconic landmarks, from ancient castles like Falmouth's Pendennis Castle to craggy headlands such as Holyhead's South Stack to mark their honorary&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;Town status.</p>

<p>"I'm happy that Harry Potter has something connected to my town," said young fan and local resident, Riley McClymond of team Holyhead Harpies.</p>

<p>Further ceremonies will take place during this week - outdoors and within COVID-19 restrictions.</p>

<p>Two fictitious&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;towns are also being honoured, Chudley Cannons and Puddlemere United. Fans can pledge their virtual allegiance to any of the thirteen&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;teams by visiting the official Harry Potter fan club, <a href="https://www.wizardingworld.com/">Wizarding World</a>, to view the banners in-situ and uncover more information about each Honorary&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;Town.</p>

<p>Quidditch&nbsp;is the sport that Harry Potter plays in the iconic boy wizard novels. It is played on a pitch with participants on broomsticks. To score points, players must throw the ball through hoops while chasing the elusive golden 'snitch'.</p>

<p>Real-life&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;was first adapted in 2005 by students at Middlebury College in Vermont, United States. A player with a tennis ball swinging from their trousers in a sock embodies the snitch. Teams from across the world battled it out at the annual International&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;Association World Cup, although the IQA World Cup 2020 has been postponed until next year and will be held in the U.S.</p>


Harry Potter fans can now visit eleven locations honoured as 'Quidditch towns' across the United Kingdom and Ireland for wonderful staycations. The locations in these towns have been honored with banners to mark the launch of a new sporting companion book to the Harry Potter series.

Harry Potter fans can now visit eleven locations honoured as 'Quidditch towns' across the United Kingdom and Ireland for wonderful staycations. The locations in these towns have been honored with banners to mark the launch of a new sporting companion book to the Harry Potter series. Written by J.K. Rowling and illustrated by Emily Gravett, "Quidditch Through The Ages Illustrated Edition" launches on Tuesday and features the UK towns of Holyhead, Falmouth, Ballycastle and Montrose among others, complete with their fictitious teams of the Holyhead Harpies, the Falmouth Falcons, Ballycastle Bats and the Montrose Magpies. The decorative Quidditch banners bearing the crest and team name were presented in mayoral ceremonies and social-distanced celebrations across the UK and Ireland at iconic landmarks, from ancient castles like Falmouth's Pendennis Castle to craggy headlands such as Holyhead's South Stack to mark their honorary Quidditch Town status. "I'm happy that Harry Potter has something connected to my town," said young fan and local resident, Riley McClymond of team Holyhead Harpies. Further ceremonies will take place during this week - outdoors and within COVID-19 restrictions. Two fictitious Quidditch towns are also being honoured, Chudley Cannons and Puddlemere United. Fans can pledge their virtual allegiance to any of the thirteen Quidditch teams by visiting the official Harry Potter fan club, Wizarding World, to view the banners in-situ and uncover more information about each Honorary Quidditch Town. Quidditch is the sport that Harry Potter plays in the iconic boy wizard novels. It is played on a pitch with participants on broomsticks. To score points, players must throw the ball through hoops while chasing the elusive golden 'snitch'. Real-life Quidditch was first adapted in 2005 by students at Middlebury College in Vermont, United States. A player with a tennis ball swinging from their trousers in a sock embodies the snitch. Teams from across the world battled it out at the annual International Quidditch Association World Cup, although the IQA World Cup 2020 has been postponed until next year and will be held in the U.S.

Harry Potter fans can now visit 'Quidditch towns' across these locations

<p>She has done it again. Just a few months back JK Rowling had found herself in the middle of a controversy due to her comments on the trans community. The controversy had died down in few weeks time but it seems that Rowling has again irked the community with her new book titled 'Troubled Blood'.<br />
<br />
The book is the latest in the Strike detective series that Rowling writes under the pseudonym Robert Glabraith. The story revolves around a cisgender male serial killer who has a fetish for women's clothing. In one instance in the book, he disguises himself as a woman to abduct a person.<br />
<br />
Activists and critics have stated that the book has an anti-trans plotline which can be damaging to the community.<br />
Several people took to Twitter to call out Rowling's transphobic work.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">the jk rowling transphobia murder mystery book is 900 pages long lmfao please see a psychiatrist joanne</p>
— emma (@emmaschuetz) <a href="https://twitter.com/emmaschuetz/status/1305691052440006656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I’ll stop tweeting about wanting JK Rowling to shut up when she stops wanting my Trans friends and family to die ✌️</p>
— Siobhan Thompson, mysterious European heiress (@vornietom) <a href="https://twitter.com/vornietom/status/1305690358630608897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Remember when the actors who played JK Rowling’s characters all told her to knock it off like she was the evil author in a goddamn episode of twilight zone being scolded by her own magical characters and she still didn’t knock it off</p>
— Daniel Kibblesmith (@kibblesmith) <a href="https://twitter.com/kibblesmith/status/1305706801434853378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">So JK Rowling went full mask off transphobe and wrote a book where a man dresses as a woman to be able to hurt women.<br />
<br />
I'm suddenly reminded of a meme. <a href="https://t.co/7ddlQ7l1bC">pic.twitter.com/7ddlQ7l1bC</a></p>
— SinfulBehaviors | BLM | ACAB (@SinfulBehaviors) <a href="https://twitter.com/SinfulBehaviors/status/1305698222418075649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TransRightsAreHumanRights?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TransRightsAreHumanRights</a><br />
<br />
Understanding is the first step to acceptance <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jk_rowling</a> and only with acceptance can there be recovery<br />
<br />
It matters not what someone is born, but what they grow to be!<br />
<br />
Every human life is worth the same, and worth saving!</p>
— JEDWARD (@planetjedward) <a href="https://twitter.com/planetjedward/status/1305810570239766528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The backlash comes in the wake of a trans row that has ongouing since June, when Rowling mocked a headline that included the inclusive phrasing “people who menstruate”.<br />
<br />
She has since spoken out on the topic of transgender rights several times, and wrote an essay on the issue even. Her comments have been criticised by stars of 'Harry Potter' films like Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and others.</p>


She has done it again. Just a few months back JK Rowling had found herself in the middle of a controversy due to her comments on the trans community. The controversy had died down in few weeks time but it seems that Rowling has again irked the community with her new book titled 'Troubled Blood'.

She has done it again. Just a few months back JK Rowling had found herself in the middle of a controversy due to her comments on the trans community. The controversy had died down in few weeks time but it seems that Rowling has again irked the community with her new book titled 'Troubled Blood'. The book is the latest in the Strike detective series that Rowling writes under the pseudonym Robert Glabraith. The story revolves around a cisgender male serial killer who has a fetish for women's clothing. In one instance in the book, he disguises himself as a woman to abduct a person. Activists and critics have stated that the book has an anti-trans plotline which can be damaging to the community. Several people took to Twitter to call out Rowling's transphobic work. the jk rowling transphobia murder mystery book is 900 pages long lmfao please see a psychiatrist joanne — emma (@emmaschuetz) September 15, 2020 × I’ll stop tweeting about wanting JK Rowling to shut up when she stops wanting my Trans friends and family to die ✌️ — Siobhan Thompson, mysterious European heiress (@vornietom) September 15, 2020 × Remember when the actors who played JK Rowling’s characters all told her to knock it off like she was the evil author in a goddamn episode of twilight zone being scolded by her own magical characters and she still didn’t knock it off — Daniel Kibblesmith (@kibblesmith) September 15, 2020 × So JK Rowling went full mask off transphobe and wrote a book where a man dresses as a woman to be able to hurt women. I'm suddenly reminded of a meme. pic.twitter.com/7ddlQ7l1bC — SinfulBehaviors | BLM | ACAB (@SinfulBehaviors) September 15, 2020 × #TransRightsAreHumanRights Understanding is the first step to acceptance @jk_rowling and only with acceptance can there be recovery It matters not what someone is born, but what they grow to be! Every human life is worth the same, and worth saving! — JEDWARD (@planetjedward) September 15, 2020 × The backlash comes in the wake of a trans row that has ongouing since June, when Rowling mocked a headline that included the inclusive phrasing “people who menstruate”. She has since spoken out on the topic of transgender rights several times, and wrote an essay on the issue even. Her comments have been criticised by stars of 'Harry Potter' films like Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and others.

JK Rowling's new book is being called out for its anti-trans plotline

<p>While the month of June has seen a huge spike in book sales in the world, one of the world’s most popular author has seen bad business. We are talking of ‘Harry Potter’ author JK Rowling who was caught in a social media controversy over her transphobic tweets&nbsp;and as a result found her books’ sales take a slump.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowlings-handprint-vandalised-with-red-paint-amid-transphobic-row-312886">JK Rowling's handprint vandalised with red paint amid 'transphobic' row</a></p>

<p>Last month, sales in print books in fiction overall rose 31.4% in the US from May, according to figures from NPD BookScan, with fiction titles in adult, young adult and juvenile sectors all seeing similar double-digit growth. Meanwhile, the author of the ‘Harry Potter’ series, by contrast, saw her print book sales in the US rise just 10.9% in June.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kristen McLean, analyst and executive director of business development at the NPD Group was quoted saying, “She’s certainly underperforming the rest of the market, comparatively, by two thirds.”</p>

<p>Her book sales are said to be down because of her recent transphobic statements. The controversy erupted after the author posted a series of tweets on June 6 contending that women can only be identified by their biological sex. Her comments have received flak on the social media including from ‘Harry Potter’ cast Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint, ‘Fantastic Beasts’ star Eddie Redmayne, ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘Fantastic Beasts’ screenwriter Steve Kloves, and ‘Harry Potter’ fansites The Leaky Cauldron and MuggleNet have all publicly rebuked Rowling for her stances on trans people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After she faced criticism, she wrote an open letter to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jk-rowling-reveals-past-abuse-and-defends-right-to-speak-on-trans-issues-305455">defend</a>&nbsp;her stance. She wrote, “Like every other domestic abuse and sexual assault survivor I know, I feel nothing but empathy and solidarity with trans women who've been abused by men.”</p>

<p>Now, JK&nbsp;Rowling along with other 150 other authors have written an&nbsp;open letter against ‘cancel culture’.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-JK-Rowling-Salman-Rushdie-and-150-other-authors-write-an-open-letter-against-%E2%80%98cancel-culture%E2%80%99-311736">Read it here.</a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/im-not-sorry-outrage-over-uk-story-by-jk-rowlings-ex-husband-justifying-abuse-305479">'I'm not sorry': Outrage over UK story by JK Rowling's ex-husband 'justifying' abuse</a></p>


While the month of June has seen a huge spike in book sales in the world, one of the world’s most popular author has seen bad business. We are talking of ‘Harry Potter’ author JK Rowling who was caught in a social media controversy over her transphobic tweets and as a result found her books’ sales take a slump.

While the month of June has seen a huge spike in book sales in the world, one of the world’s most popular author has seen bad business. We are talking of ‘Harry Potter’ author JK Rowling who was caught in a social media controversy over her transphobic tweets and as a result found her books’ sales take a slump. JK Rowling's handprint vandalised with red paint amid 'transphobic' row Last month, sales in print books in fiction overall rose 31.4% in the US from May, according to figures from NPD BookScan, with fiction titles in adult, young adult and juvenile sectors all seeing similar double-digit growth. Meanwhile, the author of the ‘Harry Potter’ series, by contrast, saw her print book sales in the US rise just 10.9% in June. Kristen McLean, analyst and executive director of business development at the NPD Group was quoted saying, “She’s certainly underperforming the rest of the market, comparatively, by two thirds.” Her book sales are said to be down because of her recent transphobic statements. The controversy erupted after the author posted a series of tweets on June 6 contending that women can only be identified by their biological sex. Her comments have received flak on the social media including from ‘Harry Potter’ cast Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint, ‘Fantastic Beasts’ star Eddie Redmayne, ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘Fantastic Beasts’ screenwriter Steve Kloves, and ‘Harry Potter’ fansites The Leaky Cauldron and MuggleNet have all publicly rebuked Rowling for her stances on trans people. After she faced criticism, she wrote an open letter to defend her stance. She wrote, “Like every other domestic abuse and sexual assault survivor I know, I feel nothing but empathy and solidarity with trans women who've been abused by men.” Now, JK Rowling along with other 150 other authors have written an open letter against ‘cancel culture’. Read it here. 'I'm not sorry': Outrage over UK story by JK Rowling's ex-husband 'justifying' abuse

JK Rowling's books' sales take a slump post transphobic row

<p>‘Harry Potter’ author JK Rowling has been in the news for sometime now and not for all the right reasons. Deemed as “transphobic” for her recent comments, Rowling’s handprints in her home town of Edinburgh have been splattered with ‘blood-like red paint’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>JK Rowling’s handprints were installed outside of Edinburgh City Chambers in 2008. The vandals have also placed a transgender rights flag nearby. Pictures of the same are now circulating on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="jk rowling" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3041796-00b8-446e-b103-3e874612c578" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New-16_0.jpg" /></p>

<p>This comes amid rising backlash against her for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowlings-tweet-about-people-who-menstruate-slammed-by-followers-called-transphobic-304137">comments </a>on people from the LGBTQ community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>JK Rowling had recently suggested that gender transition hormones are a “new kind of conversion therapy” and other similar things. She had recently reacted to an online article titled 'Opinion: Creating a more equal post COVID-19 world for people who menstruate.'</p>

<p>'People who menstruate.' I'm sure there used to be a word for those people. Someone help me out. Wumben? Wimpund? Woomud?', the award-winning writer told her 14.5million followers.</p>

<p>AFter she faced criticism, she wrote an open letter to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jk-rowling-reveals-past-abuse-and-defends-right-to-speak-on-trans-issues-305455">defend</a> her stance. She wrote, “Like every other domestic abuse and sexual assault survivor I know, I feel nothing but empathy and solidarity with trans women who've been abused by men.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/im-not-sorry-outrage-over-uk-story-by-jk-rowlings-ex-husband-justifying-abuse-305479">'I'm not sorry': Outrage over UK story by JK Rowling's ex-husband 'justifying' abuse</a></p>

<p>In a series of tweets, Rowling said she supported transgender rights but did not believe in 'erasing' the concept of biological sex.&nbsp;</p>

<p>JK Rowling's remarks have not gone down well with ‘Harry Potter’ stars &nbsp;including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rupert-grint-on-jk-rowlings-gender-comments-trans-women-are-women-trans-men-are-men-306092">Rupert Grint,</a> Emma Watson - who played Hermione in the film franchise, Daniel Radcliffe who played Harry and Eddie Redmayne, who stars in her Fantastic Beasts films.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, Jk Rowling along with other 150 other authors have written an&nbsp;open letter against ‘cancel culture’. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-JK-Rowling-Salman-Rushdie-and-150-other-authors-write-an-open-letter-against-‘cancel-culture’-311736">Read it here.</a></p>


‘Harry Potter’ author JK Rowling has been in the news for sometime now and not for all the right reasons. Deemed as “transphobic” for her recent comments, Rowling’s handprints in her home town of Edinburgh have been splattered with ‘blood-like red paint’.

‘Harry Potter’ author JK Rowling has been in the news for sometime now and not for all the right reasons. Deemed as “transphobic” for her recent comments, Rowling’s handprints in her home town of Edinburgh have been splattered with ‘blood-like red paint’. JK Rowling’s handprints were installed outside of Edinburgh City Chambers in 2008. The vandals have also placed a transgender rights flag nearby. Pictures of the same are now circulating on social media. This comes amid rising backlash against her for comments on people from the LGBTQ community. JK Rowling had recently suggested that gender transition hormones are a “new kind of conversion therapy” and other similar things. She had recently reacted to an online article titled 'Opinion: Creating a more equal post COVID-19 world for people who menstruate.' 'People who menstruate.' I'm sure there used to be a word for those people. Someone help me out. Wumben? Wimpund? Woomud?', the award-winning writer told her 14.5million followers. AFter she faced criticism, she wrote an open letter to defend her stance. She wrote, “Like every other domestic abuse and sexual assault survivor I know, I feel nothing but empathy and solidarity with trans women who've been abused by men.” 'I'm not sorry': Outrage over UK story by JK Rowling's ex-husband 'justifying' abuse In a series of tweets, Rowling said she supported transgender rights but did not believe in 'erasing' the concept of biological sex. JK Rowling's remarks have not gone down well with ‘Harry Potter’ stars including Rupert Grint, Emma Watson - who played Hermione in the film franchise, Daniel Radcliffe who played Harry and Eddie Redmayne, who stars in her Fantastic Beasts films. Now, Jk Rowling along with other 150 other authors have written an open letter against ‘cancel culture’. Read it here.

JK Rowling's handprint vandalised with red paint amid 'transphobic' row

<p>Among 150 writers including ‘Harry Potter’ author JK Rowling and ‘The Handmaids’ Tale’ scribe Margaret Atwood have written an open letter in Harper's Magazine against the ‘cancel culture’.</p>

<p>JK Rowling has been at the center of an online debate about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowlings-tweet-about-people-who-menstruate-slammed-by-followers-called-transphobic-304137">transgender rights </a>in recent weeks. She gave her name to the open letter that reads: “The free exchange of information and ideas, the lifeblood of a liberal society, is daily becoming more constricted.”</p>

<p>The letter further read, “We uphold the value of robust and even caustic counter-speech from all quarters. But it is now all too common to hear calls for swift and severe retribution in response to perceived transgressions of speech and thought.” &nbsp;</p>

<p>Titled ‘A Letter on Justice and Open Debate’ said that the cancel culture will harm the most “vital causes of our time” by silencing “good-faith” disagreement.</p>

<p>“The restriction of debate, whether by a repressive government or an intolerant society, invariably hurts those who lack power and makes everyone less capable of democratic participation. The way to defeat bad ideas is by exposure, argument, and persuasion, not by trying to silence or wish them away,” it continued.</p>

<p>The letter has been signed by authors like Salman Rushdie, Malcolm Gladwell and Noam Chomsky and others.</p>

<p>Last month, JK Rowling had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/im-not-sorry-outrage-over-uk-story-by-jk-rowlings-ex-husband-justifying-abuse-305479">voiced her opinion on transgender rights </a>when she was trolled on social media. She had said that certain demands by transgender activists were dangerous to women.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/harry-potter-fan-sites-step-back-from-jk-rowling-over-transgender-views-310369">Harry Potter fan sites step back from JK Rowling over transgender views</a></p>


Among 150 writers including ‘Harry Potter’ author JK Rowling and ‘The Handmaids’ Tale’ scribe Margaret Atwood have written an open letter in Harper's Magazine against the ‘cancel culture’.

Among 150 writers including ‘Harry Potter’ author JK Rowling and ‘The Handmaids’ Tale’ scribe Margaret Atwood have written an open letter in Harper's Magazine against the ‘cancel culture’. JK Rowling has been at the center of an online debate about transgender rights in recent weeks. She gave her name to the open letter that reads: “The free exchange of information and ideas, the lifeblood of a liberal society, is daily becoming more constricted.” The letter further read, “We uphold the value of robust and even caustic counter-speech from all quarters. But it is now all too common to hear calls for swift and severe retribution in response to perceived transgressions of speech and thought.” Titled ‘A Letter on Justice and Open Debate’ said that the cancel culture will harm the most “vital causes of our time” by silencing “good-faith” disagreement. “The restriction of debate, whether by a repressive government or an intolerant society, invariably hurts those who lack power and makes everyone less capable of democratic participation. The way to defeat bad ideas is by exposure, argument, and persuasion, not by trying to silence or wish them away,” it continued. The letter has been signed by authors like Salman Rushdie, Malcolm Gladwell and Noam Chomsky and others. Last month, JK Rowling had voiced her opinion on transgender rights when she was trolled on social media. She had said that certain demands by transgender activists were dangerous to women. Harry Potter fan sites step back from JK Rowling over transgender views

JK Rowling, Salman Rushdie and 150 other authors write an open letter against ‘cancel culture’

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