BY: Jasmine Franklin
Published 2 months ago
Miriam Margolyes is the latest “Harry Potter” star to speak out against J.K. Rowling. The actress, best known to millions as Professor Pomona Sprout in the “Harry Potter” film series, has criticized the author’s ongoing remarks about the transgender community. In a recent interview, Margolyes called Rowling’s stance “too harsh.” She also acknowledged the anger and pain it has caused within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Miriam Margolyes Talks J.K. Rowling’s Queer Bashing
Margolyes, now 84 and openly gay, shared her thoughts on the A Gay Old Time podcast.
“I think her opinion is too harsh,” she said, calling for civility on both sides of the debate.
“I really just feel supportive about this tiny group of people who are trans, and if they want me to use pronouns, I think it’s the right thing to do,” added Margolyes. “If you can make people happy, do it.”
Although Margolyes stands firmly with the trans community, she also expressed discomfort with some responses to Rowling. During a July 2025 interview with Sky News, she reflected on the intensity of the backlash.
“I think everybody can be criticised, I think that’s fair enough, but everybody’s so horrid and nasty and unkind, and I don’t like that,” she said.
“I don’t want people to be unkind about trans… I mean, I’m a gay woman myself, and you have to just put up with it. I don’t know if [Rowling’s] been badly treated, but I think it was wrong that she wasn’t invited to the celebrations for Harry Potter. You know, she created the whole thing.”
Margolyes’ comments aim to affirm trans rights while also calling for a more respectful dialogue across differing viewpoints. She joins a growing list of “Harry Potter” alumni, including Emma Watson, Daniel Radcliffe, and Rupert Grint, who have publicly condemned Rowling’s anti-trans remarks.
How Has J.K. Rowling Responded to the Backlash So Far?
So far, Rowling has not responded directly to Margolyes’ comments. However, she remains vocal about her views on gender identity and continues to frame her concerns around women’s rights and the significance of biological sex.
Earlier this year, Rowling celebrated a UK Supreme Court ruling that legally defined womanhood in terms of biological sex under the Equality Act. The ruling excludes transgender women from the legal category of “woman” in certain contexts, prompting backlash from LGBTQIA+ advocates.
I love it when a plan comes together.#SupremeCourt #WomensRights pic.twitter.com/agOkWmhPgb
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) April 16, 2025
In response to the decision, Rowling posted a photo on X of herself with a drink in one hand and a cigar in the other. She captioned it, “I love it when a plan comes together.” The post reignited fierce debate. Supporters praised her for standing by her beliefs, while critics viewed it as a flippant and hurtful gesture amid a ruling that impacts trans rights.
Rowling has also faced criticism from other celebrities, including “Bridgerton” star Nicola Coughlan and “SNL” cast member Bowen Yang. Both have voiced strong support for the trans community.
What It Means for Fans
The divide between Rowling and former cast members reflects a deeper reckoning within pop culture. The books and films have meant a great deal to LGBTQIA+ readers. Many of whom found solace in their themes of identity, resilience, and belonging.
Margolyes’ comments didn’t fuel division, but offered a perspective rooted in lived experience. As debates about gender identity and public responsibility continue, her words serve as a reminder that criticism can come from a place of care, not cruelty.
What do you think about Miriam Margolyes’ comments on J.K. Rowling? Share your thoughts in the comments.
