Bel Powley Says She Disagrees With J.K. Rowling’s Views on Trans Rights

Bel Powley, who will play Aunt Petunia in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series, has spoken out against author J.K. Rowling’s views on transgender rights.

In an interview with The Telegraph, Powley said she “strongly disagree[s]” with Rowling’s views on gender and said transgender people deserve “safety and dignity and respect and total acceptance.”

Powley said her disagreement with Rowling does not change her feelings about the Harry Potter franchise. She said she grew up reading the books and remains a fan of their “magic and spookiness.”

Several actors connected to the franchise have similarly expressed support for transgender people. Original stars Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson have previously criticized Rowling’s comments. New cast members Paapa Essiedu and John Lithgow have also voiced support for the trans community while saying they value the Harry Potter stories.

Rowling, who wrote the original books and is an executive producer on the HBO adaptation, has faced sustained criticism over her views on sex and gender. She has continued to support organizations and legal efforts focused on what she describes as protecting women’s sex-based rights.

The new Harry Potter series is scheduled to premiere on HBO at Christmas.