John Lithgow has addressed backlash at his involvement in the new Harry Potter TV series - after fans called for him to walk away from the series. After it was announced he would be taking on the role last October, he was quickly met by backlash from his fans - calling for him to walk away from the project over JK Rowling's views on trans rights. Quizzed about his decision to join the TV show, which is due for release in 2027, despite criticism from fans, actor John, 80, admitted it was a 'hard' one to make. I chose not to do that.’Last month, Hollywood legend Ralph Fiennes accidentally 'revealed' a Peaky Blinders star is due to play Voldemort in HBO's upcoming Harry Potter TV series. Elsewhere, last September, JK Rowling issued an unprecedented condemnation of Emma Watson by accusing her of being 'ignorant of how ignorant she is'.

Source: Daily Mail February 02, 2026 12:25 UTC