Harry Potter star defends Tom Felton over his controversial comments on JK Rowling’s transphobia

By Charlie Sawyer

Published Jun 11, 2025 at 12:09 PM

Reading time: 2 minutes

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Harry Potter alumnus Tom Felton recently found himself in hot waters after the actor, known best for his portrayal of Draco Malfoy in the franchise, told news outlets that he’s “not really attuned” to JK Rowling’s transphobic views. Surprisingly, since then, another former Harry Potter star has come out in support of Felton’s comments.

Felton has been dominating headlines recently after it was announced that the actor would be returning to the iconic series by playing Malfoy in the upcoming Broadway production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

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During a recent red carpet interview at the 2025 Tony Awards, the controversial moment in question was captured. Asked directly by Variety about his stance, Felton stated: “I can’t say it [impacts me], I’m not really that attuned to it. I have not seen anything bring the world together more than [Harry] Potter. [JK Rowling]’s responsible for that, so I’m incredibly grateful.”

Over the past several years, JK Rowling has become the poster child of the anti-trans movement, particularly in the UK. Both the writer’s incessant personal attacks and public political backing have contributed to a growing wave of transphobia, casting a dark cloud over the entire Harry Potter universe.

Safe to say that netizens online did not take kindly to Felton’s blatant disregard and dismissal of Rowling’s actions and rhetoric. The very fact that the actor plainly stated that the topic at hand didn’t impact him also spoke volumes.

A number of users online pointed to the fact that Felton’s former castmates Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson have all understandably distanced themselves from Rowling. Furthermore, they’ve actively stood in solidarity with the trans community in public, defending their rights and doing their best to push for progress:

@thedollshistory

please repost. Emma Watson talks with a transgender woman about transrights 🤍#emmawatson #transgender #interview #transrights #lgbt #parislees

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However, not all of the Harry Potter film cast feel the same. In fact, Felton’s on-screen father, played by Jason Isaacs, has come forward to show his support for the actor.

Replying to a video clip posted on X showing Felton expressing love and admiration for Isaacs, The White Lotus star wrote: “Saw you presenting on the Tonys tonight son – you looked good, sounded good and did great. Tickets booked for November x”

Felton will take the stage at the Lyric Theatre in New York City from 11 November 2025, becoming the first cast member from the original film franchise to reprise their role.

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