Emma Watson has expressed enduring affection and love for J.K. Rowling despite their public rift over transgender issues. Watson acknowledged that while she disagrees with Rowling's views on gender identity, she still treasures the relationship and the experiences they shared. She has said she hopes people who disagree with her views will still love her, and she aims to continue loving those with differing opinions, including Rowling. Watson emphasized that her past connection with Rowling allows her to cherish her, even as they hold diverging opinions on transgender rights.
On the other hand, J.K. Rowling has criticized Watson, labeling her as "ignorant" and claiming Watson lacks real-life experience due to her privileged background. Rowling revealed that Watson sent her a handwritten note expressing sympathy during a period of intense controversy and personal threats against Rowling, but Rowling viewed this gesture as insufficient given Watson's public stance supporting transgender rights, which Rowling opposes. Rowling has expressed frustration with Watson and Daniel Radcliffe for publicly criticizing her and assuming the role of "unofficial representatives" of the Harry Potter universe.
