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Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
J.K. Rowling Praises Scripts for ‘Harry Potter' HBO Series as Fans Continue Boycott Over Anti-Trans Views
As backlash over J.K. Rowling's stance on transgender rights continues to grow, the controversial author is doubling down on her involvement in the upcoming Harry Potter reboot at HBO — and giving fans a first taste of what's to come. While many longtime fans have vowed to boycott the new series due to Rowling's anti-transgender rhetoric, the author is hyping up those still on her side as the Warner Bros. Discovery project heads into production this summer, with a 2026 premiere date on the horizon. 'I read the first two episodes of the forthcoming HBO Harry Potter series and they are SO, SO, SO GOOD!' Rowling shared on X, adding that she's 'worked closely' with the show's writers' room. When one follower asked if she's directly writing the new scripts, Rowling clarified, 'No, but I've worked closely with the extremely talented writers.' HBO Chairman and CEO Casey Bloys has previously addressed the controversy surrounding Rowling and whether her politics will influence the reboot. 'The decision to be in business with J.K. Rowling is not new for us,' Bloys said during an appearance on The Town with Matthew Belloni podcast. 'We've been in business for 25 years. We already have a show on HBO from her called C.B. Strike that we do with the BBC.' Bloys continued, 'It's pretty clear that those are her personal, political views. She's entitled to them. Harry Potter is not secretly being infused with anything. If you want to debate her, you can go on Twitter.' According to Deadline, Rowling was involved in the original pitch process and will executive produce the series through her Brontë Film and TV banner. Bloys confirmed her involvement, saying, 'She will be involved. She's an executive producer on the show. Her insights are going to be helpful on that.' He added that Rowling's ongoing controversies are 'very nuanced and complicated,' but emphasized, 'Our priority is what's on the screen. Obviously, the Harry Potter story is incredibly affirmative and positive and about love and self-acceptance. That's our priority — what's on screen.' Rowling sparked renewed outrage after she publicly praised the UK Supreme Court's ruling that trans women can be excluded from the legal definition of 'women.' In response, more than 400 individuals signed an open letter demanding the UK film and TV industry take action. Among them was actor Paapa Essiedu — who is now confirmed to play Professor Snape in the upcoming reboot.
Time of India
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
J K Rowling confirms close partnership with writers for new 'Harry Potter' series
Amid ongoing controversies surrounding J K Rowling 's anti-transgender stance, the author is giving her support to the much-anticipated Harry Potter HBO series, slated to premiere in 2026. Despite a growing boycott from many fans, Rowling remains an outspoken advocate for the show, revealing that she has worked closely with the writers to ensure the series lives up to the magic of her beloved books. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Rowling raved about the first two episodes of the new Harry Potter series, writing, "I read the first two episodes of the forthcoming HBO Harry Potter series and they are SO, SO, SO GOOD!" by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: 1 simple trick to get all TV channels Techno Mag Learn More Undo The enthusiastic endorsement comes as the project enters its production phase, with Warner Bros. Discovery gearing up to bring the wizarding world to the small screen. When asked if she is writing the series, Rowling clarified that she isn't penning the scripts herself. However, she confirmed that she's played an integral role behind the scenes, replying, "No, but I've worked closely with the extremely talented writers." Live Events The announcement comes at a time when Rowling's controversial views on transgender issues have sparked backlash and led to calls for boycotts of the new adaptation. Critics argue that her stance might influence the new series, but HBO executives have been firm in their commitment to the project. Casey Bloys, Chairman and CEO of HBO, addressed the ongoing situation in a recent interview, explaining that Rowling's personal views will not dictate the direction of the show. "The decision to be in business with J.K. Rowling is not new for us," Bloys remarked, adding, "We've been in business for 25 years. We already have a show on HBO from her called C.B. Strike that we do with the BBC," as quoted by Deadline. He added that, while Rowling's views may be polarising, the studio is focused on the story itself. "Harry Potter is not secretly being infused with anything. If you want to debate her, you can go on Twitter," Bloys said, indicating that the series would remain true to the spirit of the books, which are known for their themes of love, self-acceptance, and friendship, as reported by Deadline. Rowling's role in the adaptation has been a point of interest for fans and critics alike. It has been confirmed that she will serve as an executive producer on the series through her production company, Bronte Film and TV. According to reports obtained by Deadline, Rowling was involved in the initial pitch process for the series, ensuring her vision for the world of Harry Potter remained intact. Bloys also reassured fans that the show would prioritise the core themes of the Harry Potter universe. "Our priority is what's on the screen," Bloys shared, adding, "Obviously, the Harry Potter story is incredibly affirmative and positive and about love and self-acceptance. That's our priority, what's on screen," as quoted by Deadline. While HBO continues to back Rowling's involvement, the controversy surrounding her statements on transgender issues remains a contentious topic. The author's past remarks, including her praise for a UK Supreme Court ruling that restricts the legal recognition of trans women, have drawn sharp criticism from various sectors of the film and TV industry. In response, over 400 individuals, including actors, writers, and activists, have signed a letter urging the UK's entertainment industry to take action against her on trans rights. One notable signatory was actor Paapa Essiedu, who has been cast in the new Harry Potter series as Professor Snape. Essiedu, a vocal advocate for trans rights, joined the letter expressing concern about Rowling's controversial stance and its potential impact on the show's legacy.
Mint
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Mint
J K Rowling confirms close partnership with writers for new Harry Potter series
Washington [US], June 22 (ANI): Amid ongoing controversies surrounding J K Rowling's anti-transgender stance, the author is giving her support to the much-anticipated Harry Potter HBO series, slated to premiere in 2026. Despite a growing boycott from many fans, Rowling remains an outspoken advocate for the show, revealing that she has worked closely with the writers to ensure the series lives up to the magic of her beloved books. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Rowling raved about the first two episodes of the new Harry Potter series, writing, "I read the first two episodes of the forthcoming HBO Harry Potter series and they are SO, SO, SO GOOD!" The enthusiastic endorsement comes as the project enters its production phase, with Warner Bros. Discovery gearing up to bring the wizarding world to the small screen. When asked if she is writing the series, Rowling clarified that she isn't penning the scripts herself. However, she confirmed that she's played an integral role behind the scenes, replying, "No, but I've worked closely with the extremely talented writers." The announcement comes at a time when Rowling's controversial views on transgender issues have sparked backlash and led to calls for boycotts of the new adaptation. Critics argue that her stance might influence the new series, but HBO executives have been firm in their commitment to the project. Casey Bloys, Chairman and CEO of HBO, addressed the ongoing situation in a recent interview, explaining that Rowling's personal views will not dictate the direction of the show. "The decision to be in business with J.K. Rowling is not new for us," Bloys remarked, adding, "We've been in business for 25 years. We already have a show on HBO from her called C.B. Strike that we do with the BBC," as quoted by Deadline. He added that, while Rowling's views may be polarising, the studio is focused on the story itself. "Harry Potter is not secretly being infused with anything. If you want to debate her, you can go on Twitter," Bloys said, indicating that the series would remain true to the spirit of the books, which are known for their themes of love, self-acceptance, and friendship, as reported by Deadline. Rowling's role in the adaptation has been a point of interest for fans and critics alike. It has been confirmed that she will serve as an executive producer on the series through her production company, Bronte Film and TV. According to reports obtained by Deadline, Rowling was involved in the initial pitch process for the series, ensuring her vision for the world of Harry Potter remained intact. Bloys also reassured fans that the show would prioritise the core themes of the Harry Potter universe. "Our priority is what's on the screen," Bloys shared, adding, "Obviously, the Harry Potter story is incredibly affirmative and positive and about love and self-acceptance. That's our priority, what's on screen," as quoted by Deadline. While HBO continues to back Rowling's involvement, the controversy surrounding her statements on transgender issues remains a contentious topic. The author's past remarks, including her praise for a UK Supreme Court ruling that restricts the legal recognition of trans women, have drawn sharp criticism from various sectors of the film and TV industry. In response, over 400 individuals, including actors, writers, and activists, have signed a letter urging the UK's entertainment industry to take action against her on trans rights. One notable signatory was actor Paapa Essiedu, who has been cast in the new Harry Potter series as Professor Snape. Essiedu, a vocal advocate for trans rights, joined the letter expressing concern about Rowling's controversial stance and its potential impact on the show's legacy. (ANI)
Time of India
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Who is Sam Bird's girlfriend Jess Impiazzi? Know more about the actor who is always cheering for the Formula E driver
Image credit: Jess Impiazzi/Instagram Formula E driver Sam Bird is yet to clinch a podium this season, but the 38-year-old has his partner and actor Jess Impiazzi by his side most of the time. The NEOM McLaren driver is often spotted with Impiazzi at the races, and she too is usually there to cheer for him from the sidelines. Here is more about the actor who was also present at the recently held Tokyo E-Prix. Who is Jess Impiazzi ? Jess Impiazzi is a TV actress, having featured in shows like C.B. Strike (2017), Keep Calm & Carry On (2022), and Override (2021). She often accompanies Sam Bird to the track and is one of his biggest cheerleaders during the races. She is currently working on the Jitters movie and had shared some behind-the-scenes pictures from the shooting of the film. She recently also opened up about her struggle with lupus — an autoimmune disease. She is now in remission and thanked her near and dear ones who helped her in her journey. Jess Impiazzi shares post about Tokyo E-Prix Sam Bird's girlfriend Jess Impiazzi accompanied him to the Tokyo E-Prix as well and then penned a note to sum up the experience. Talking about the Tokyo trip, Impiazzi wrote, 'I couldn't be more proud of you @sambird_official getting back in the points today here in #Tokyo at the @fiaformulae #tokyoeprix! You're an incredible human and have a heart and soul second to none!' Talking more about the Tokyo double-header, Impiazzi wrote, 'Tokyo has been the most amazing place! The culture, the people, the awesome things to see and do! I've loved every second of this trip! I'm so grateful to the amazing team @mclarenfe! Every single person who works there is just the kindest and loveliest humans! I feel so lucky getting to know everyone! So that's a wrap on our Tokyo trip and coming back home tomorrow! Over and out. ' Also Read: Sam Bird is NEOM McLaren teammate Taylor Barnard's biggest cheerleader, says 'It's been great to see Taylor do such an incredible job' Sam Bird is currently in 17th position in the Formula E Driver Standings with 27 points. He has also been cheering for teammate Taylor Barnard, who is doing very well in his rookie season at NEOM McLaren.
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Harry Potter' Series Is ‘Not Secretly Being Infused' With J.K. Rowling's Anti-Trans Beliefs, Says HBO Boss: ‘If You Want to Debate Her, You Can Go on Twitter'
HBO's chief content officer Casey Bloys recently appeared on 'The Town' podcast and stressed to 'Harry Potter' fans that the network's upcoming TV adaptation of J.K. Rowling's literary franchise will not be 'infused' with the author's controversial views on the transgender community. Both the network and the new 'Harry Potter' cast have received backlash for getting into business with Rowling, who continues to post what many believe are transphobic comments on X. She also uses social media to regularly troll her critics and take aim at public figures (such as slamming John Oliver's comments on trans athletes). 'The decision to be in business with J.K. Rowling is not new for us. We've been in business for 25 years,' Bloys said, nodding to the mega-successful 'Harry Potter' film franchise that spawned eight movies, grossed $7.7 billion worldwide and launched spinoffs, video games and more. More from Variety Josh Hutcherson Joins Rachel Sennott HBO Comedy Series 'Gilded Age' Sets Season 3 Release Date, HBO Drops First Teaser John Lithgow Says He 'Absolutely' Didn't Expect Any J.K. Rowling Backlash After Joining HBO's 'Harry Potter' Series: 'Why Is This a Factor?' Bloys was asked if Rowling's views on the trans community made him worried for the show, to which he continued: 'We already have a show on HBO from her called 'C.B. Strike' that we do with the BBC. It's pretty clear that those are her personal, political views. She's entitled to them. 'Harry Potter' is not secretly being infused with anything. And if you want to debate her, you can go on Twitter.' At a press event last year, Bloys told reporters that Rowling was 'very, very involved in the process selecting' showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod to lead the charge on the 'Harry Potter' TV series. He added that Rowling's anti-trans statements 'haven't affected the casting or hiring of writers or productions staff' for the show. A spokesperson for the network added in a statement to Variety at the time that Rowling's 'contribution' to the larger Warner Bros. Discovery company 'has been invaluable.' 'We are proud to once again tell the story of Harry Potter — the heartwarming books that speak to power of friendship, resolve and acceptance,' the statement continued. 'J.K. Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.' HBO confirmed last month the first round of cast members for the new 'Harry Potter' series, including John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid. Lithgow told The Times of London afterwards that he was surprised by the backlash that followed. A friend of the actor's sent him an open letter asking him to walk away from the show due to Rowling's involvement. 'I thought, 'Why is this a factor at all?' I wonder how J.K. Rowling has absorbed it,' Lithgow said. 'I suppose at a certain point I'll meet her, and I'm curious to talk to her.' When asked if the backlash has made him reconsider the role, Lithgow said, 'Oh, heavens no.' Best of Variety Oscars Predictions 2026: 'Sinners' Becomes Early Contender Ahead of Cannes Film Festival New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week What's Coming to Netflix in May 2025
