J.K. Rowling Slams Emma Watson, Labels Her ‘Ignorant’ Over Recent Comments
J.K. Rowling has opened up about her falling out with Emma Watson, and her response is sharp and critical.
In a lengthy social media post of nearly 700 words, the Harry Potter author described Watson’s views on transgender rights as “ignorant” and shared details about the private letter that marked the end of their friendship.
I'm seeing quite a bit of comment about this, so I want to make a couple of points.
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) September 29, 2025
I'm not owed eternal agreement from any actor who once played a character I created. The idea is as ludicrous as me checking with the boss I had when I was twenty-one for what opinions I should… https://t.co/c0pz19P7jc
Rowling said their relationship started to break down in March 2022, after Watson’s appearance at the BAFTA Awards. At the event, Watson declared she was “here for all of the witches.” Rowling recalled that moment as coming during a time when she was facing intense public criticism and threats. She said Watson’s remarks only made things worse.
What wasn’t known publicly was that Watson later sent Rowling a handwritten note through a third party, which simply said, “I’m so sorry for what you’re going through.” Rowling responded, “Emma had just publicly poured more petrol on the flames, yet thought a one line expression of concern from her would reassure me of her fundamental sympathy and kindness.”
Rowling went further, criticizing what she sees as Watson’s lack of understanding. She said, “Like other people who’ve never experienced adult life uncushioned by wealth and fame, Emma has so little experience of real life she’s ignorant of how ignorant she is. I wasn’t a multimillionaire at fourteen. I lived in poverty while writing the book that made Emma famous. I therefore understand from my own life experience what the trashing of women’s rights in which Emma has so enthusiastically participated means to women and girls without her privileges.”
Rowling also accused Watson of acting out of convenience, suggesting that her recent words of love and gratitude were motivated by changing public opinion.
“The greatest irony here is that, had Emma not decided in her most recent interview to declare that she loves and treasures me – a change of tack I suspect she’s adopted because she’s noticed full-throated condemnation of me is no longer quite as fashionable as it was – I might never have been this honest.”
On the other side, Watson has painted a much gentler picture of her stance. Speaking on her podcast with Shetty, the actress said she doesn’t believe supporting trans rights conflicts with her admiration for Rowling.
“I think the thing I’m most upset about is that conversation is never made possible. I really don’t believe that by having had that experience and holding the love and support and views that I have, means that I can’t and don’t treasure Jo and the person that I had personal experiences with. I will never believe that one negates the other,” Watson explained.
She added that her perspective is based on compassion and hope for mutual respect despite differences. “It’s my deepest wish that I hope people who don’t agree with my opinion will love me and I hope I can keep loving people who I don’t necessarily share the same opinion with.”
The two first bonded during the filming of the Harry Potter series, when Watson played Hermione Granger and Rowling was guiding the story as its author.
Their friendship was reportedly close for many years, with Watson often speaking warmly about Rowling’s mentorship and support. But over time, their views on social issues created tension, ultimately straining what had been a strong connection.
This public disagreement highlights the challenges of maintaining personal relationships when public opinions and activism intersect. Rowling’s sharp response contrasts with Watson’s more measured, compassionate tone, showing a clear difference in how they approach the controversy.
It’s a reminder that friendships, even long-standing ones, can be tested when beliefs and values clash. What do you think about this conflict between J.K. Rowling and Emma Watson? Share your thoughts in the comments.