The conflict between J.K. Rowling and Emma Watson intensified recently over their opposing views on transgender rights. It began around 2020 when Rowling shared controversial opinions about the transgender community, which many saw as transphobic. Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films, publicly disagreed with Rowling's views and expressed support for the trans community. Recently, Watson made comments in a podcast expressing that despite their political differences, she still treasures her past relationship with Rowling and hopes to maintain affection despite disagreements. However, Rowling responded sharply on social media, calling Watson "ignorant" and privileged, criticizing her lack of real-life experience compared to Rowling’s own struggles, and accusing her of enthusiastically participating in what Rowling calls the "trashing of women's rights." Rowling also highlighted a turning point in their relationship at the 2022 BAFTA Awards, referencing Watson's remarks that were widely interpreted as supportive of the trans community, which Rowling felt was a veiled jab. Rowling expressed disappointment over what she saw as Watson adding fuel to the fire during a time when Rowling was receiving serious threats. Emma Watson has maintained that she hopes for dialogue and reconciliation, emphasizing she can hold two incompatible realities—cherishing her personal experience with Rowling while opposing her views on gender issues. Rowling, on the other hand, has asserted her right to publicly criticize Watson and distanced herself emotionally from their former friendship.
