John Cleese has added his name to a list of signatories of a letter supporting JK Rowling, amid a row over her stance on transgender issues. Some 58 figures – including Sir Tom Stoppard, actress Frances Barber, author Ian McEwan and actor and writer Griff Rhys Jones – originally backed the letter, published in the Sunday Times. Harry Potter author Rowling, 55, has attracted strong criticism for comments on gender identity, but vehemently denies she is transphobic. Rowling was also accused of being transphobic after responding to an article headlined “Creating a more equal post-Covid-19 world for people who menstruate”. I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives.

Source: Irish Independent September 30, 2020 15:56 UTC