" That was the snitcher in the coal mine . "
Of course, you know legendary actorJohn Lithgow. You probably also know that he was recently cast as Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s upcomingHarry PotterTV series.
You probably also know that the series itself has become fairly controversial due to the involvement ofHarry Pottercreator J.K. Rowling, who has spent the majority of her post-Harry Pottercareer spending time — and money — essentially pushing back against the mere notion of trans rights.
The series itself has become a hotbed of discourse and criticism as a result of J.K.’s involvement.BridgertonstarNicola Coughlanrecently took to IG tospeak outagainst her, the show,andthe recent UK Supreme Court’s unanimousrulingthat a “woman” in equality legislation should be defined as referring to a “biological woman and biological sex.” (J.K. previouslypublicly celebratedthe ruling.)
Unfortunately, one person who doesn’t seem to careat allabout the criticism is John Lithgow. In a recent interview withthe Sunday Times, he professed confusion as to why anyone would have an issue with the series or, seemingly, J.K.’s involvement.
In the interview, John said that taking on the role of Dumbledore was “a big decision because it’s probably the last major role I’ll play.” “It’s an eight-year commitment, so I was just thinking about mortality and that this is a very good winding-down role,” he added.
John then revealed that, after his casting was revealed, he received a text from “a very good friend who is the mother of a trans child” that includeda link to an open letterdirected to him urging that he “walk away” from the role. “That was the canary in the coal mine,” he said.
Dismayingly, the gesture apparently did not move John much. “I thought, ‘Why is this a factor at all?'" he said regarding the backlash. “I wonder how J.K. Rowling has absorbed it. I suppose at a certain point I’ll meet her, and I’m curious to talk to her.” When he was asked if the backlash has spoiled his casting for him, John replied, “Oh, heavens no.”
Alright, man. Good luck with all of that!
