“Harry Potter‘s” new Hagrid, Nick Frost, is making it clear that he doesn’t agree with J.K. Rowling‘s views on trans rights.
In a new interview with The Observer, the “Shaun of the Dead” and “Hot Fuzz” star was asked about the backlash he received from trans rights activists after signing on to play the lovable half-giant in HBO‘s upcoming “Harry Potter” series. Rowling, who has courted controversy in recent years by sharing takes on social media that are widely considered anti-trans, is an executive producer on the new series and was “very involved in the process” of selecting its creative team, according to HBO chief Casey Bloys.
Frost revealed in the interview that he had to disable comments on his Instagram post about his casting due to the amount of backlash. However, he said of the author: “She’s allowed her opinion and I’m allowed mine, they just don’t align in any way, shape or form.”
When asked if he fears the debate over Rowling may overshadow the series, Frost said “I don’t know,” adding: “But maybe it shouldn’t blow over? We shouldn’t just hope it will go away, because it makes it easier. Maybe we should educate ourselves.”
Representatives for Rowling did not comment on the matter when reached by Variety.
On the other hand, Draco Malfoy actor Tom Felton — who is soon reprising the role on Broadway in “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” — told Variety on the Tonys red carpet Sunday night that the controversy over Rowling hasn’t impacted his view of the franchise.
“The only thing I always remind myself is that I’ve been lucky enough to travel the world — here I am in New York — and I have not seen anything bring the world together more than ‘Potter,’” Felton said. “And she’s responsible for that, so I’m incredibly grateful.”
