J.K. Rowling, a renowned author and feminist, has found herself at odds once again with actor David Tennant over her views on protecting biological women’s rights. Tennant, previously played the role of Barty Crouch Jr in 2005’s Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, recently hinted at his reluctance to join the upcoming HBO TV series based on Rowling’s novels.
The tension between Rowling and Tennant stems from their differing stances on transgender issues. Rowling has been vocal about her concerns regarding the impact of certain transgender policies on women’s rights and spaces. Her views, while controversial to some, are rooted in her commitment to safeguarding women’s hard-won protections.
Related ‘Doctor Who’ Star David Tennant to Anti-Transgender Fans: ‘F**k Off’
Tennant, on the other hand, has aligned himself with the LGBTQ+ community, even receiving a “Celebrity Ally” award at the 2024 LGBT Awards. And while he and wife Georgia Tennant have not explicitly confirmed it, there is evidence suggesting that one of their children identifies as non-binary. Georgia Tennant posted a photo on Instagram in May 2023 of their child Wilfred using the pronoun “them,” which indicates Wilfred identifies as non-binary. Given the actor’s preference for privacy, any further details would be speculative.
This ideological divide has led to public disagreements between the two, with Rowling occasionally responding to Tennant’s criticisms on social media.
He’s a woman-hating W⚓ pic.twitter.com/VAq1Olwj0H
— Mother Terf 🟥 (@DrBrooski) March 24, 2025
At the recent Planet Comicon convention, Tennant suggested that his involvement in the new Harry Potter series was unlikely, citing an “executive producer that doesn’t love me all that much.” This comment, while not directly naming Rowling, was widely interpreted as a reference to her. Rowling’s role as an executive producer on the HBO series is in no doubt based on her creation of the beloved wizarding world and her expertise in the subject matter.
See Also Fight Like a Girl: Rowling Won’t Be Bullied by Woke Trans Activists
Earlier this month, the author took an apparent dig at the three stars of the Potter film franchise – Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint – on social media, following a very public spat between them. While some actors may share Tennant’s reservations about working with Rowling, it’s unlikely to significantly impact the production of the highly anticipated series, and HBO is standing firmly behind Rowling. The Harry Potter franchise has such a vast and dedicated fanbase that it extends well beyond the current debate.
In the end, Rowling’s commitment to biological women’s rights and safety, and Tennant’s full throated support for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly the transgender agenda, represent different perspectives on complex social issues. As the Harry Potter TV series moves forward, it will likely continue to generate discussion about these important topics.
***
English (US) · 