John Lithgow Almost Quit Harry Potter TV Series Over Rowling Backlash

The veteran actor was hesitant to take on the iconic role of Albus Dumbledore due to J.K. Rowling's controversial anti-trans statements.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:03pm

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In a recent interview, acclaimed actor John Lithgow revealed that he almost backed out of playing Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO adaptation of the Harry Potter book series. Lithgow said he was "stung" by the backlash he received after the casting was announced, as many fans were upset over J.K. Rowling's anti-trans rhetoric. However, Lithgow ultimately decided to keep the role, stating that the core themes of the Harry Potter series are "clearly on the side of the angels, against intolerance and bigotry."

Why it matters

Lithgow's decision to take on the role of Dumbledore has sparked a debate around whether actors should distance themselves from projects associated with creators who hold controversial views. While Lithgow disagrees with Rowling's statements, he believes the Harry Potter series itself promotes important values of tolerance and acceptance.

The details

In the interview, Lithgow admitted he has never met Rowling and does not agree with her anti-trans comments. However, he felt compelled to stay with the project given the lengthy commitment required to adapt the seven-book series. Lithgow recently starred in the queer drama "Jimpa," further complicating the discussion around his decision to play Dumbledore.

  • Lithgow's interview with the New York Times was published on March 17, 2026.
  • Last month, Lithgow discussed Rowling's trans statements in an interview with Variety.

The players

John Lithgow

A veteran actor known for his roles in TV shows like "3rd Rock from the Sun" and "Dexter," as well as films such as "The World According to Garp" and "Shrek." Lithgow was cast to play the iconic role of Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter series.

J.K. Rowling

The author of the Harry Potter book series, who has faced significant backlash for her controversial anti-trans statements.

Michael Gambon

The actor who previously portrayed Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film franchise, following the death of the original Dumbledore actor, Richard Harris.

Richard Harris

The late actor who originated the role of Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film series.

Aud Mason-Hyde

The trans, non-binary actor who co-starred with Lithgow in the queer drama "Jimpa," and expressed mixed feelings about Lithgow's decision to take on the role of Dumbledore.

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What they’re saying

“I take the subject extremely seriously. She has created this amazing canon for young people, and it has jumped into the consciousness of the society. It's about good versus evil, kindness versus cruelty. I find her views ironic and inexplicable. I've never met her, she's not really involved in this production at all. But the people who are, are remarkable.”

— John Lithgow, Actor

“It was a hard decision. It made me uncomfortable and unhappy that people insisted I walk away from the job. I chose not to do that.”

— John Lithgow, Actor

“I don't think it's worth speaking to John's reasoning by any means, but I do also think that it's a strange decision, for sure. And also I found it disconcerting, maybe, is the right word.”

— Aud Mason-Hyde, Actor

What’s next

Lithgow's performance as Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series will likely be closely watched and scrutinized by fans, given the ongoing controversy surrounding J.K. Rowling's views.

The takeaway

Lithgow's decision to take on the role of Dumbledore despite the backlash over Rowling's anti-trans statements highlights the complex ethical considerations actors face when working on projects associated with creators who hold controversial views. While Lithgow disagrees with Rowling's rhetoric, he believes the core values of the Harry Potter series are worth preserving.