Andrew Garfield Calls Out JK Rowling And Says Harry Potter Franchise Has Become 'Controversial'

Andrew Garfield has taken aim at author JK Rowling, referring to her as 'she that shall remain nameless', while also explaining why involvement with the Harry Potter franchise now feels 'controversial' to many people.

During an interview with Hits Radio, the 42-year-old Hacksaw Ridge actor shared his honest thoughts on the ongoing debate around the well-known fantasy series and Rowling’s public views on gender, which are often described as anti-trans.

Although he made a comparison between Rowling and her own villain Voldemort, 'He who shall not be named', the British-American actor also spoke in a more balanced way when discussing the films themselves, which remain popular with both younger viewers and long-time fans.

Garfield explained that he had only recently sat down and watched the Harry Potter movies for the first time. At the same time, he pointed to Rowling’s public statements and shared why he believes engaging with the world of Hogwarts and Diagon Alley now carries a level of controversy for some audiences.

Andrew Garfield was not afraid to share his views on JK Rowling's opinions Mike Marsland/WireImage

He began by talking about how much he enjoyed the quality of the eight films released between 2001 and 2011, which introduced the franchise and its lead actors, Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, to a global audience.

Garfield said in the interview: "I hadn't watched the Harry Potters until recently … and he's [Daniel Radcliffe] really good in those Harry Potter movies. Those Harry Potter movies are really good."

While he praised the films, Garfield also made it clear that he understands how the franchise has become a point of cultural and political debate, noting that continuing to engage with it can now be seen as 'controversial'.

With a new Harry Potter reboot planned for release this Christmas on HBO, The Amazing Spider-Man actor argued that it is difficult to separate Rowling herself from the wider franchise, especially given her financial support for groups that oppose trans rights.

Garfield said: "We shouldn't be, you know, putting money in the pocket of inhumane legislation right now through she that shall remain nameless."

This comment refers to the author’s financial backing of an anti-trans campaign group in Scotland, which pursued legal challenges that reached the UK Supreme Court. The ruling ultimately stated that references to 'women' or 'sex' in British law apply only to people assigned female at birth.

Even so, Garfield made it clear that his comments were not meant to dismiss the films themselves. Instead, he framed them as a way to highlight the work of many talented people beyond Rowling.

Reflecting on watching the movies, Garfield said: "But the soul and the spirit of a lot of the essence of the themes of those films, and all the artisans and craftspeople..."

The author has not held back on her views Samir Hussein/WireImage

"I'm working with a wonderful make-up artist, Claire, right now who was working in the creature workshop. I feel like, oh man, we can't throw the baby out with the bathwater. There are so many beautiful artists that worked on those films."

Despite the ongoing debate around the series, Garfield shared that seeing the films for the first time gave him a fresh appreciation for the wide range of artists and creators who helped bring the story to life on screen.

A closer look at the new Harry Potter cast

Harry Potter (Dominic McLaughlin)

HBO

Professor McGonagall (Janet McTeer)

HBO

Dumbledore (John Lithgow)

The new casting choice brings a different presence to the beloved headmaster, offering a fresh take on a familiar character.

HBO

Draco Malfoy (Lox Pratt)

This version of Draco introduces a new actor stepping into one of the series’ most recognizable rival roles.

HBO

Hermione Granger (Arabella Stanton)

The character of Hermione continues to be a central figure, now portrayed by a new face for a new generation.

HBO

Ron Weasley (Alastair Stout)

Ron’s role remains key to the trio, with the reboot aiming to stay close to the spirit of the original books.

HBO

Professor Snape (Paapa Essiedu)

The casting of Snape has already sparked discussion, as the actor steps into a role made iconic in the original films.

HBO

Hagrid (Nick Frost)

Nick Frost takes on the role of the gentle giant, bringing his own style to the character loved by fans.

HBO

Aunt Petunia (Bel Powley)

The reboot also revisits Harry’s early life, including his time with the Dursleys, with new actors portraying these familiar roles.

HBO