Rupert Grint is facing criticism from anti-JK Rowling activists after it was announced he will return to his role as Ron Weasley in the stage production of "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child." The 38-year-old actor, who portrayed the character in the eight "Harry Potter" films, is set to appear at Broadway's Lyric Theatre for a 17-week run beginning February 2.
Grint becomes the second film actor to join the stage sequel, following Tom Felton, who reprised his role as Draco Malfoy. "Ron Weasley has been a part of me since I was 11 years old and I can't wait to meet him again in this stage of life," Grint stated about his involvement.
However, the announcement has drawn backlash from some who have labeled Grint a "hypocrite." These critics point to Grint's public statements in June 2020, following controversial comments made by J.K. Rowling about sex and transgender people. At the time, Grint stated, "I firmly stand with the trans community… Trans women are women. Trans men are men," adding that everyone should live "with love and without judgment."
Critics have expressed their disappointment on social media platforms, with comments ranging from irritation to accusations of being a "sell out" and "spineless." Some posts have questioned why Grint would take the role, given his previous stance on transgender issues.
Conversely, some supporters have anticipated the backlash and voiced their backing for Grint. They question whether "trans activists" will now turn against him, given his stated support for the trans community. Others have defended the "Harry Potter" franchise and its continued popularity, suggesting that critics represent a "very small but very loud and annoying minority."
This situation arises shortly after actor Nicolas Hoult withdrew from the upcoming HBO "Harry Potter" series remake. Hoult was reportedly cast as Gilderoy Lockhart but backed out, citing "scheduling issues," following online backlash related to Rowling's views. Kit Harington is set to replace Hoult in the role.
Rowling, the author of the "Harry Potter" series, has been a vocal advocate for women's rights but has also faced accusations of transphobia from some campaigners. Many actors involved in the new HBO series have reportedly encountered criticism from her detractors, who advocate for boycotting projects related to her work. Rowling is an executive producer on the HBO series.
The HBO "Harry Potter" reboot will feature 12-year-old Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, with Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley and Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger. Rowling has previously expressed enthusiasm for the scripts, calling them "SO, SO, SO GOOD."