Emma Watson, who played the iconic role of Hermione Granger in the film adaptations of Rowling's Harry Potter books, has been a vocal advocate for the transgender community.
Following a series of public comments made by J.K. Rowling on sex and gender that were widely criticized as transphobic, Watson publicly expressed her support for trans people in 2020.| Figure | Stance/Action |
| Emma Watson | Has publicly affirmed her support for the trans community, stating: "Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned." |
| J.K. Rowling | Has doubled down on her controversial comments, which have been criticized as anti-trans. She has publicly expressed that she would "never forgive" Watson, Daniel Radcliffe, and Rupert Grint for "cos[y]ing up to a movement intent on eroding women's hard-won rights." |
Watson's Recent Comments
In a recent September 2025 podcast interview, Watson addressed the rift, striking a conciliatory but firm tone:
She still "treasures" Rowling and the personal experiences they shared, stating she doesn't believe her support for trans rights negates the love and gratitude she has for the author.
She expressed her deepest wish is to "keep loving people who I don't necessarily share the same opinion with" and believes "no one is disposable."
The thing she is "most upset about is that a conversation was never made possible," suggesting she remains open to dialogue.
Rowling's Reaction
J.K. Rowling has responded to Watson's recent interview by sharing a parody video mocking the actress, implying that Watson's attempt to bridge the gap was not sincere. This indicates that the public rift remains deep and personal.
Despite their disagreements, Watson maintains that the value of the character and world Rowling created for her will always remain true and that there is "no world in which I could ever cancel her out."
The YouTube search result includes coverage of the initial public clash in 2020 between Emma Watson and J.K. Rowling Emma Watson RESPONDS To J.K. Rowling!.
