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J.K. Rowling, the author behind the best-selling Harry Potter books, has shared her enthusiasm for the upcoming HBO adaptation of the series. In an X post on June 21, Rowling revealed that she has read the scripts for the first two episodes and gave them her stamp of approval.
"I read the first two episodes of the forthcoming HBO Harry Potter series and they are SO, SO, SO GOOD!" Rowling wrote. When a fan asked if she was involved in the writing process, she clarified that she did not write for the series but worked "closely" with the writers.
Rowling's involvement in the series has been a topic of discussion, particularly due to her vocal anti-transgender views. However, in April 2023, it was reported that she would be involved in the series to ensure its accuracy to her original storyline. She will serve as an executive producer on the show, along with Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod.
Gardiner is also a writer for the series, while Mylod is set to direct several episodes. In a June 2024 X post, Rowling revealed that she had "interviewed" both Gardiner and Mylod and was "thrilled to announce them as our director and writer."
Despite the controversy surrounding Rowling's views, the cast of the new adaptation has shared differing opinions on the novelist and her stance. John Lithgow, who will play Albus Dumbledore in the series, told The Times that he "absolutely" did "not" expect to face questions about the author's political views when he took on the role.
Meanwhile, Paapa Essiedu, who will play Severus Snape in the upcoming series, signed an open letter condemning the U.K. Supreme Court's ruling that transgender women and men are not legally considered women and men. Rowling later addressed speculation that his differing views would affect his Harry Potter casting.
The cast of the original Harry Potter franchise, including Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson, have also spoken out in support of transgender rights, making it clear they have different views from Rowling.
HBO announced last month that the roles of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley had been cast in the forthcoming series, with Dominic McLaughlin playing Harry, Arabella Stanton portraying Hermione, and Alastair Stout starring as Ron.
Gardiner and Mylod said in a press release that they were "delighted to announce we have found our Harry, Hermione, and Ron" following an "extraordinary search" for the iconic roles.
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