J.K. Rowling has reportedly taken measures to conceal the name of her £112 million superyacht, 'Samsara,' during a recent visit to Los Angeles, amid concerns it could attract pro-transgender activists.
The vessel was observed docked in Marina Del Rey harbor with its signage covered. According to a local resident, the yacht's name is often obscured because it "attracts protesters." Another local described it as the "worst-kept secret on the marina."
Rowling, 61, has faced significant backlash since 2020 for her views on transgender issues, particularly her "deep concerns" about transgender activism. This stance has led to public criticism from various figures, including actors Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, who gained fame through the "Harry Potter" film franchise.
The superyacht 'Samsara' features seven cabins capable of accommodating up to 14 guests, a private cinema, and a beach club. Originally commissioned for Los Angeles businessman Eric Smidt, the founder of Harbor Freight Tools, the yacht was sold to Australian billionaire Brett Blundy in 2022 before Rowling acquired it.
Last year, Rowling shared a post on her X account celebrating a UK Supreme Court ruling that defined a woman based on biological sex. The post, which showed her on the deck of the Samsara smoking a cigar with a glass of whisky, was captioned, "I love it when a plan comes together."
More recently, Rowling offered to fund female National Health Service patients and staff pursuing legal action against a health trust that allowed transgender women to continue using women-only wards, toilets, showers, and changing rooms.