Overview

• John Lithgow, 79, has been confirmed as Albus Dumbledore in HBO's Harry Potter series, describing it as an eight-year commitment and likely his last major role.
• Lithgow expressed surprise at backlash over J.K. Rowling’s involvement, emphasizing that her anti-trans views did not influence his decision to join the project.
• A friend of Lithgow, who is the mother of a trans child, first alerted him to the potential controversy by sharing an open letter urging him to reconsider the role.
• HBO leadership, including CEO Casey Bloys, reiterated that Rowling’s views have not impacted casting or production, focusing instead on the franchise’s positive themes.
• Lithgow noted the double standard in criticism, highlighting that his portrayal of Roald Dahl, an author known for antisemitic remarks, did not provoke similar reactions.