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J.K. Rowling Celebrates UK Supreme Court Ruling Defining 'Woman' by Biological Sex

The decision, backed by Rowling's financial support, has spurred backlash from celebrities, fans, and trans advocates while reigniting debates over transgender rights and women's spaces.

Nicola Coughlan reacted after JK Rowling welcomed the new Supreme Court ruling in the UK.
Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan has cricised JK Rowling's problematic views on trans women
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Writer J.K. Rowling attends the world premiere of the film "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald" in Paris, on Nov. 8, 2018.

Overview

  • The UK Supreme Court ruled on April 16 that the legal definition of 'woman' under the Equality Act is based on biological sex, excluding trans women with gender recognition certificates.
  • J.K. Rowling, who donated £70,000 to support the legal challenge, celebrated the ruling on social media with a post referencing 'TERF VE Day,' drawing widespread criticism.
  • Actors from the Harry Potter films, including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, have publicly condemned Rowling's stance and reaffirmed their support for trans rights.
  • Nicola Coughlan of Bridgerton launched a fundraiser for the trans charity Not a Phase in protest, raising nearly £100,000 as of April 18.
  • The ruling has intensified debates over single-sex spaces and anti-discrimination laws, with trans advocates warning of its potential to heighten marginalization and discrimination.