Bel Powley speaks out against J.K. Rowling’s views on gender

Bel Powley has publicly voiced her disagreement with J.K. Rowling’s views on gender while continuing to express her affection for the Harry Potter franchise.

Powley, who is set to portray Aunt Petunia Dursley in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter television adaptation, discussed her stance during an interview with The Telegraph published on Monday, August 10. The actress is also attached to the series as an executive producer.

Speaking about Rowling’s controversial comments regarding gender and transgender people, Powley made it clear that she does not share the author’s perspective.

“I strongly disagree with J.K. Rowling’s views on gender,” Powley said, adding that she believes the transgender community deserves “safety and dignity and respect and total acceptance.”

Despite her disagreement with Rowling, Powley emphasized that her feelings toward the Harry Potter books and their magical world remain unchanged. The actress recalled growing up with the novels and described herself as part of the first generation of readers who experienced the franchise as it became a global phenomenon.

“But I love Harry Potter,” Powley said. “I grew up with the books. I am from that first generation of readers and, again, I love magic and spookiness.”

Her comments come amid years of controversy surrounding Rowling’s public statements about gender identity and transgender rights. The author first faced widespread criticism in 2020 after making comments that were viewed by many as dismissive of transgender identities.

Rowling has repeatedly rejected accusations that she is hostile toward transgender people. She has defended her position by describing it as rooted in her concerns about women’s rights and feminism. Her statements have continued to generate debate among fans, celebrities and members of the entertainment industry.

Powley’s remarks highlight the complicated relationship some Harry Potter stars and fans have with the franchise. While the series remains deeply meaningful to many people who grew up with the books and films, Rowling’s public views have also created divisions among sections of its audience.

Meanwhile, HBO’s new Harry Potter adaptation is moving forward with a new generation of actors taking on the beloved characters.

The first season will feature Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. Janet McTeer will play Professor Minerva McGonagall, while Paapa Essiedu will portray Severus Snape.

Nick Frost is set to appear as Rubeus Hagrid, Lox Pratt will play Draco Malfoy and Warwick Davis will portray Professor Filius Flitwick.

The upcoming series is expected to revisit the story of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, introducing the magical world to a new television audience while offering a fresh interpretation of J.K. Rowling’s bestselling books.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is scheduled to premiere on HBO Max during the Christmas season of 2026.