Emma Watson has broken her silence regarding the ongoing tension between her and Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling, following the controversy surrounding Rowling’s comments on transgender issues.
In 2020, Rowling’s remarks about gender and the transgender community sparked widespread backlash. Emma Watson, along with her fellow Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint, publicly supported the trans community, leading to a falling out with the author. Rowling responded by stating that she would “never forgive” the actors for aligning with a movement she felt was undermining women’s rights.
Five years after the fallout, Watson spoke openly about the situation during an appearance on Jay Shetty’s podcast. While Watson admitted she doesn’t share Rowling’s views, she emphasized that this doesn’t diminish the fondness she holds for the person she once knew. “I really don’t believe that by having had that experience and holding the love and support and views that I have, mean that I can’t and don’t treasure Jo and the person that I had personal experiences with,” Watson shared.
She further explained her position, saying she doesn’t believe one can negate the other. “I just don’t think these things are either/or,” she added, wishing for mutual respect and understanding even amid differing opinions. Watson expressed a hope that people with opposing views could still love and respect one another.
In addition to addressing her relationship with Rowling, Watson also discussed the publicized six-month driving ban she faced. The actress explained that her career, especially in films, had limited her opportunities to gain driving experience, as she was often chauffeured to sets. This lack of experience, she said, contributed to the ban, and she now feels more confident behind the wheel.
