Tom Felton has joined the growing list of Harry Potter cast members addressing the ongoing debate surrounding JK Rowling.
Numerous Harry Potter enthusiasts have expressed disappointment with the series creator following her recent statements regarding transgender women.
Rowling sparked considerable controversy when she publicly endorsed the UK Supreme Court’s decision stating that transgender women do not qualify as legal women under current law.
However, Rowling’s position on trans women extends back several years, including reports that she endorsed a 2018 social media post referring to transgender women as ‘men in dresses’.
Following the public outcry, several Harry Potter performers have voiced their support for the transgender community, including Rupert Grint who portrayed Ron Weasley, alongside Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson.
Grint stated in a 2020 declaration: “I firmly stand with the trans community and echo the sentiments expressed by many of my peers. Trans women are women. Trans men are men.”
Tom Felton, recognized for his portrayal of Draco Malfoy throughout the beloved magical film franchise, has now offered his perspective on the matter.
When questioned by Variety about how the Twitter controversy surrounding Rowling affects him and his professional work, Felton provided a measured response.
“I’m not really that attuned to it,” Felton responded. “I have not seen anything bring the world together more than Potter. She’s responsible for that, so I’m incredibly grateful.”
Felton’s remarks coincide with recent announcements that he will return to his role as Draco Malfoy on Broadway at the Lyric Theatre in New York later this year for the Harry Potter And The Cursed Child theatrical production.
The production highlighted that he represents the ‘first actor from the films to reprise’ their character on stage, marking Felton’s Broadway debut.
Reflecting on this opportunity, he commented: “Being a part of the Harry Potter films has been one of the greatest honours of my life. Joining this production will be a full-circle moment for me, because when I begin performances in Cursed Child this fall, I’ll also be the exact age Draco is in the play.
“It’s surreal to be stepping back into his shoes – and of course his iconic platinum blond hair – and I am thrilled to be able to see his story through and to share it with the greatest fan community in the world.
“I look forward to joining this incredible company and being a part of the Broadway community.”
He will commence his performance run in Harry Potter And The Cursed Child on November 11 for a limited 19-week engagement.