“This is not a new decision for us”: HBO Max Chief Defends J.K. Rowling, Claims Harry Potter Reboot Will Focus on ‘Self-Acceptance’ Despite Author’s Controversial Views

HBO Max Chief Defends J.K. Rowling, Claims Harry Potter Reboot Will Focus on ‘Self-Acceptance’ Despite Author’s Controversial Views

J. K. Rowling the author of the Harry Potter books and movies, faced immense backlash from people around the world when she tweeted her opinion of the transgender community. The author’s comments were labeled as transphobic, and a danger to the transgender community due to her derogatory opinion and views. 

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J.K. Rowling
J.K. Rowling

Warner Bros. Discovery’s presentation to the press and investors was full of surprises as a new Harry Potter series was announced, and J.K. Rowling will be the executive producer of the show. However, during the Q&A session, when asked how the author’s involvement Casey Bloys defended the author, and fans shared their opinion on social media.

Also Read: Harry Potter Reboot Reportedly Being Used as Leverage to Force Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson Return for 9th Movie to Milk $7.7B Franchise

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Casey Bloys Defends J.K. Rowling During the Q&A Session

Casey Bloys, the CEO and Chairman of HBO and Max content were present in the presentation, and he was asked if the author’s views would affect the ability to find the right talent for the newly announced show. However, the Chairman refrained from sharing his views on Rowling’s morality as it is a “very online conversation” and they prioritize “what’s on the screen.”  And J.K. Rowling’s presence would be greatly helpful due to her insights into the show.

A still from Harry Potter

“No, I don’t think this is the forum. That’s a very online conversation, very nuanced and complicated and not something we’re going to get into. Our priority is what’s on the screen. Obviously, the ‘Harry Potter’ story is incredibly affirmative and positive and about love and self-acceptance. That’s our priority — what’s on screen. [Rowling] will be involved. She’s an executive producer on the show. Her insights are going to be helpful on that.”

Casey Bloys continued, that despite they are announcing a new Harry Potter series, they have been in the wizarding business for 20 years, and it is not a “new decision” for them.

Harry Potter
A still from Harry Potter

“The TV show is new and we’re excited about that, but, remember, we’ve been in the ‘Potter’ business for 20 years. This is not a new decision for us, we’re very comfortable being in the ‘Potter’ business.”

After Casey Bloys’ comments were released, fans were quick to share their opinion on the show as well as the author, where some fans criticized her and demanded to cancel the show. Whereas, some users backed the author and the show based on the novels which shaped their childhood.

Also Read: Harry Potter Live-Action Series Officially Confirmed by HBO Max as Franchise Bids Adieu to Emma Watson, Daniel Radcliffe, and Rupert Grint

Fans Share Their Opinion On Casey Bloys’ Comments

When Casy Bloy shared his opinion that the author’s presence would help them in making the series as she is the original author of the books and her insight would keep the TV Series true to the source material.

J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter book series

Moreover, despite her controversial views that trans women are not women, and trans men are not men, the series will ensure to choose the right talent for the roles, making a new generation a fan of the franchise.

Another user stated that if people tend to reject literature based on the author’s opinion of the world, then reading would be difficult. The movie shaped his childhood and he would like his kids to experience the same magic.

Another user stated it is pathetic that the people at HBO know about the author’s views, yet they are supporting her.

A fan stated that they will not watch the show unless it is based on the Marauders era.

A fan tweeted that they are excited about the new series, and they already know it is going to be a great watch.

Another fan tweets that the new Harry Potter series would be a hit similar to Hogwarts: Legacy. 

While people are boycotting J.K. Rowling due to her controversial views on Twitter is a bad idea, not only for the show but also for the actors and filmmakers involved as they have put in a lot of time and effort into the show. Moreover, boycotting Harry Potter, a movie series that shaped our childhood is wrong due to J.K. Rowling’s opinion; the new generation should experience the Wizarding World.

Also Read: J.K. Rowling Reportedly Laid Down Non-Negotiable Terms for Harry Potter HBO Reboot to Preserve Original Story’s Essence

Source: Variety

 

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Written by Tushar Auddy

A voracious reader and a wordsmith at heart. Tushar is a student of Linguistics, who's always on the lookout for a good book or a captivating story. He has a passion for literature that runs deep and loves nothing more than getting lost in a novel for hours on end. When he isn't reading, you'll find him scribbling down his thoughts and musings, always eager to capture the beauty of language.

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