HBO has announced the cast for its upcoming Harry Potter series, three adorable newcomers stepping into the iconic roles of Harry, Hermione, and Ron.
It's being framed as a “faithful adaptation” of JK Rowling’s original books. A whole new generation will get its own version of the story many of us grew up with. And just like that, the hype machine is in full swing.
But instead of excitement, I feel unease. Are we really doing this again?
Let’s be clear: this isn’t about the actors. I hope the best for them; this is a huge opportunity. But HBO’s decision to reboot Harry Potter raises a question I can’t ignore: why are we still pouring time, money, and energy into this franchise, knowing what we know now?
Have we all just forgotten how loudly and unapologetically transphobic JK Rowling is? Or are we collectively pretending it doesn’t matter, using the tired excuse of “separating art from the artist”? Or is the truth even bleaker: we just don’t care?
I get it. I loved Harry Potter too, and a part of me still does. I rewatch the movies when I need comfort. Like millions of others, I found meaning in that world. And at this point, the story almost feels like it belongs more to the fans than the author.
But loving Harry Potter doesn’t erase the reality of who Rowling has become.
Since 2020, she has repeatedly made transphobic statements, doubling down on her views despite backlash. She’s mocked trans-inclusive language, questioned trans women’s access to women’s spaces, and potrayed herself as a victim of “cancel culture” while using her massive platform to spread harmful rhetoric.
Why retell the same story?
There’s no artistic need to re-adapt Harry Potter. The original books still sell. The films still hold up. It’s not some forgotten property in need of rescue, it’s one of the most successful media franchises in history.
This isn’t to say that adaptations can’t be meaningful, but thousands of incredible stories go untold. Especially those written by or centering trans people, queer people, disabled people, black and brown people, voices that mainstream entertainment still sidelines.
Retelling Harry Potter doesn’t introduce anything new. So why invest millions into retelling the same story when countless untold stories are begging for a spotlight? Magic doesn’t have to look the same every time. And it’s long past time we let new voices write it.
Can we separate the art from the artist?
The idea of “separating the art from the artist” is a common defense for enjoying Harry Potter.
It’s tempting to argue that the story’s magic belongs to the fans, not Rowling, and that we can engage with it without endorsing her views. While I agree with most of it, the argument starts to crumble when you consider the material consequences of supporting her work.
Rowling is an executive producer on the series, meaning she’ll profit financially and maintain creative control. Every episode watched, every subscription purchased, will contribute to her wealth and relevance.
Rowling isn’t just some background figure. She’s not quietly collecting royalties. She’s actively using her platform and the continued success of this franchise to promote views that cause real harm.
Unfortunately, watching the HBO series isn’t just a nostalgic indulgence, it’s a financial transaction that boosts Rowling’s influence. A new, high-profile adaptation actively puts money in her pocket and keeps her relevance intact.
This isn’t about “cancelling” Rowling or denying fans their love for the wizarding world. It’s about recognizing the real-world impact of our choices.
You can cherish the memories of Harry Potter. Those are yours. But we have to ask ourselves: Is it worth fueling a machine that gives someone like Rowling more power to harm an already vulnerable community?