John Lithgow to walk out of Harry Potter series over JK Rowling comments?

John Lithgow has spoken up amidst the backlash he has faced after joining HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series. The actor, in his latest interview, admitted that he "absolutely" did not anticipate the controversy surrounding franchise author and creator JK Rowling to impact his involvement.
In an interview with The Times of London, Lithgow revealed that after accepting the role, he received criticism due to Rowling’s comments regarding the transgenders that have ignited uproar from fans and the community. The actor, who made waves for his performance in the Oscar-nominated film 'Conclave' said his decision was a personal one as, "it was a big decision because it’s probably the last major role I’ll play."
"It’s an eight-year commitment, so I was just thinking about mortality and that this is a very good winding-down role," he added.
Lithgow also revealed that he received a letter from a close friend, the mother of a transgender child, requesting him to "Please Walk Away from Harry Potter." The letter was sent shortly after his casting was announced. "That was the canary in the coal mine," he remarked.
Reflecting on the situation, Lithgow questioned why Rowling’s personal views should affect the broader project. "I wonder how J.K. Rowling has absorbed it. I suppose at a certain point I’ll meet her, and I’m curious to talk to her."
Despite the criticism, Lithgow made it clear he has no second thoughts about accepting the role. When asked if the backlash made him reconsider, he replied, "Oh, heavens no."
HBO has previously confirmed that the author remains closely involved in the development of the series, and noted that her controversial views have "not affected the casting or hiring of writers or production staff" for the project.