Andrew Garfield Shades J.K. Rowling While Celebrating the Artists Behind the ‘Harry Potter’ Films
Andrew Garfield has spoken out about the Harry Potter films, praising the talented artists behind the series while criticizing author J.K. Rowling for her controversial views. Speaking on Hits Radio’s Watch My Life In Movies series, Garfield explained that he recently watched the films for the first time.
“[Daniel Radcliffe] is really good in the ‘Harry Potter’ films, the films are really good,” Garfield said. He added that while the franchise is beloved, people should be careful about financially supporting Rowling due to her donations to groups like For Women Scotland, which oppose the expansion of trans rights.
“I know it’s controversial and we shouldn’t be putting money in the pocket of inhumane legislation right now, through… she who shall remain nameless,” he said.
Despite his criticism of Rowling, Garfield emphasized the importance of recognizing the work of everyone involved in making the films. “There are so many beautiful artists that worked on those films. The soul and the spirit of a lot of the essence and theme of the films, and all the artisans and the craftspeople… I’m working with a wonderful makeup artist, Claire, right now who was working [in] the creature workshops, and I’m just like, ‘Oh man, we can’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.’ I have a newfound appreciation for all of the artists.”
The discussion comes amid ongoing debate around the Harry Potter franchise and its association with Rowling, whose public views on gender have sparked backlash. Some fans have criticized actors participating in new projects related to the series. For example, John Lithgow, who plays Albus Dumbledore in the HBO reboot, has faced questions about working on the project.
Lithgow told Out magazine that while he respects his co-star Aud Mason-Hyde, who is non-binary, he finds the criticism of taking the role confusing. “He is such an incredibly talented actor, but also such a beautiful human to make work with, and that was my experience with John. I never felt invalidated or questioned or doubted in my identity or in my transness by him. I consistently felt that he was a very loving and a very guiding co-star,” Mason-Hyde said.
Speaking at the Rotterdam Film Festival about his role in the series, Lithgow also commented on Rowling’s views. “I take this subject extremely seriously. She has created this amazing canon for young people and it has jumped into the consciousness of the society. It’s about good versus evil, kindness versus cruelty. I find her views ironic and inexplicable. I’ve never met her, she’s not really involved in this production at all. But the people who are, are remarkable,” he said.
Garfield’s comments highlight the tension between enjoying a beloved franchise and grappling with the personal beliefs of its creator. He suggested that fans can still appreciate the artistry and effort of the many people who worked on the films without supporting controversial views.
Garfield’s perspective is fair. It’s possible to separate the creators’ personal opinions from the hard work of everyone else involved. What do you think about his take on the Harry Potter films and J.K. Rowling? Share your thoughts in the comments.