Overview

• Watson told Jay Shetty’s podcast she still treasures Rowling and is open to a conversation despite their differences over transgender rights.
• Rowling reshared a spoof by comedian IntelLady on X, adding, “I’m here for ALL the spoofs,” in a post widely seen as mocking Watson’s remarks.
• In a new statement published Monday, Rowling accused Watson of being “ignorant” and of fueling abuse against her, further hardening her stance.
• The rift dates to 2020, when Watson, Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint publicly backed trans rights; in 2024 Rowling said she would not forgive them and told them to save their apologies.
• Separately, Warner Bros. Discovery is proceeding with a Harry Potter TV reboot targeted for 2026, with Rowling attached as an executive producer.