John Lithgow has reacted to the controversy surrounding his decision to accept a role in the new TV adaptation of the Harry Potter novels.
Back in February, the two-time Oscar nominee revealed he would be playing Albus Dumbledore in the new HBO series, which will devote one season to each of the Harry Potter books.
While John himself expressed his excitement at putting his spin on the Hogwarts headmaster, many were disappointed at his casting due to the involvement of author JK Rowling – who has become a polarising figure due to her commentary on the trans community in recent years – in the show.
In a new interview with The Times, the Conclave star admitted he was “absolutely not” expecting this reaction to his casting.
According to the man himself, he was more concerned with the fact that, at almost 80 years old, Dumbledore would “probably” be “the last major role” he would play in his career – and whether fans of the Harry Potter franchise would be accepting of an American playing the role.
Of the backlash, he said: “I thought, why is this a factor at all? I wonder how JK Rowling has absorbed it.
“I suppose at a certain point I’ll meet her and I’m curious to talk to her.”
Asked whether the criticism made him second-guess his decision, he then insisted: “Oh, heavens no.”
During the interview, John even referenced a widely-shared open letter published in Book Riot which urged him to reconsider being part of the Harry Potter TV series, and revealed that a “very good friend” – who is the mother of a trans child – had texted him before he was even confirmed for the role, which he described as “the canary in the coalmine”.
HBO previously defended JK Rowling’s executive producer role in the new Harry Potter series, with a spokesperson telling Variety: “We are proud to once again tell the story of Harry Potter – the heartwarming books that speak to the power of friendship, resolve and acceptance.
“JK 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.”