Harry Potter fanatics rejoice! Your favourite characters are returning to the school of witchcraft and wizardry. But don’t expect to see J.K. Rowling.
It has been 20 years since Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone graced our screens and made the boy who lived a household name. In celebration, Warner Bros. are reuniting the cast in what will be a nostalgic trip that is not to be missed.
Returning: Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter), Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley), Emma Watson (Hermione Granger), Ralph Fiennes (Voldemort) and a long list of fan favourites from across the eight film series.
However, one very notable missing person is J.K. Rowling, the creator and writer of the original book series. Though a beloved writer during the production of the film series, Rowling has come under extreme criticism in recent years after making a series of transphobic comments.
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In response to her comments, her relationship with the cast and Warner Bros. has been strained. Radcliffe put out a lengthy statement affirming his position; “To all the people who now feel that their experience of the books has been tarnished or diminished. I am deeply sorry for the pain these comments have caused you”. Watson followed suit, tweeting “I want my Trans followers to know that I and so many other people around the world see you, respect you, and love you for you are”
Warner Brothers also issued this statement:
After five days, Warner Bros. has issued this statement about J.K. Rowling’s anti-trans comments.
MORE HERE: https://t.co/L7SZMUET05 pic.twitter.com/HRLtChHA33
— Adam B. Vary (@adambvary) June 11, 2020
In spite of the controversy, Warner Bros. are holding their heads high with spokesperson Tom Ascheism telling the Hollywood reporter “This retrospective is a tribute to everyone whose lives were touched by this cultural phenomenon – from the talented cast and crew who poured their heart and soul into this extraordinary film franchise to the passionate fans who continue to keep the Wizarding World spirit alive 20 years later”
Though Rowling will not appear directly in the special, archival footage of her will be used.
Harry Potter: Return to Hogwarts will premiere on Binge on the 1st of January (and on HBO Max for our American cousins)
Watch the trailer below!
