Emma Watson, the prominent actress known for playing Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter movie franchise, made a powerful statement at the BAFTA Awards of 2022. While presenting the award for Best Outstanding British Film, Watson responded to Rebel Wilson’s comment with a statement of her own: “I’m here for ALL the witches.” BAFTA viewers interpreted this as a dig at J.K. Rowling, the bestselling author of the Harry Potter novels, who has been widely criticized for her controversial comments regarding transgender women.
Rowling’s Controversial Comments
In June 2020, Rowling shared her disapproval of certain transgender terminology on Twitter, including the term “people who menstruate” being used instead of women. This led to backlash from fans, who called her post transphobic. Rowling defended her comments, stating that she respects every trans person’s right to live in any way that feels authentic and comfortable to them, but that her concerns stem from being a survivor of abuse and worrying about single-sex spaces.
Watson’s Statement And Fan Reactions
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Watson’s comment at the BAFTA Awards was seen by many as a stand against Rowling’s controversial views. Fans flooded Twitter with posts interpreting her statement as a dig at the author. Many praised Watson for taking a stand against transphobia, while others criticized her for not being more direct in her criticism of Rowling. Rowling’s views have also been condemned by other Harry Potter actors, including Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Eddie Redmayne.
