Andrew Garfield Voices Concerns Over JK Rowling’s Views
Actor Andrew Garfield has recently chimed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding author JK Rowling, suggesting that enjoying the Harry Potter films has become a “controversial” act. This comes amid Rowling’s ongoing criticism for her views regarding biological sex, particularly her stance on excluding transgender women from women’s sports.
In a radio interview, Garfield refrained from using Rowling’s name directly, referring to her as “She Who Remains Unnamed,” and remarked on her apparent support for what he termed an “inhumane” cause. He shared that after recently watching the films for the first time, he found it challenging to reconcile supporting them with the larger controversy.
Garfield expressed his awareness of the contentious nature of the situation during his conversation with Hits Radio. “I know it’s controversial, and we shouldn’t be pouring money into an inhumane bill right now through She Who Must Not Be Named,” he stated, referencing the Harry Potter villain Voldemort. However, he also praised the essence and themes of the films, highlighting their wonderful qualities.
In addition to Rowling’s controversial opinions, she has made financial contributions to For Women Scotland, a group that is legally challenging the definition of “woman” under British law. A ruling from the UK Supreme Court in 2025 determined that this definition is based on biological sex.
Rowling has further fueled the debate by publicly endorsing the International Olympic Committee’s recent decision to restrict transgender women from competing in women’s sports, arguing that it restores fairness: “But I will never forget the Paris 2024 scandal, when people who consider themselves extremely noble and progressive publicly cheered for men to beat women,” she remarked on X.
Garfield isn’t alone in his stance; other notable figures like Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson, who played Harry Potter and Hermione Granger, respectively, have also openly criticized Rowling’s views. Moreover, actor John Lithgow contemplated stepping back from playing Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO series, although he ultimately decided to remain involved after the backlash.
