Evanna Lynch denies fallout between Harry Potter cast and J.K. Rowling
Harry Potter recently celebrated its 20th anniversary by gathering the cast for a nostalgic reunion special on HBO Max. But while the stars of the film franchise reflected on their years at Hogwarts, one person was noticeably missing: Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling.
Rowling has come under fire in recent years for her comments about the transgender community. Many assumed her absence from Return to Hogwarts was the result of Warner Bros. Pictures and the Harry Potter cast intentionally distancing themselves from the controversy.
Given that several Harry Potter stars — including Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson — have spoken out in support of the transgender community in the wake of Rowling’s comments, that seemed a safe assumption to make. Fan groups have done some distancing, as well, like how American Quidditch leagues are looking for a new name for their pasttime. However, according to Luna Lovegood actress Evanna Lynch, the notion that the cast has cut ties with J.K. Rowling is a bit of an exaggeration.
Evanna Lynch says Harry Potter cast has “great respect” for J.K. Rowling
During an interview with GB News, Lynch opened up about the rumors that Rowling wasn’t invited back for the Harry Potter reunion special. The actress pushed back at the idea that the Harry Potter cast has problems with Rowling, suggesting they simply “don’t all agree” on everything:
"I’ve talked to all the cast, they all have great respect for her if they don’t agree with her beliefs. She has her beliefs and she’s doing her thing. It’s been a very difficult conversation, and I don’t want us to keep fighting, so I reject that narrative there’s been a cold shoulder."
She also challenged the narrative that Rowling wasn’t invited to join Return to Hogwarts, emphasizing how “busy” the author is.
Lynch’s words may surprise fans — both those angered over Rowling’s absence and those relieved by it. Either way, she’s one of the few stars to actually address the situation following the HBO Max special, although Rupert Grint (Ron) also talked about it to The Sunday Times. “I liken JK Rowling to an auntie,” he said. “I don’t necessarily agree with everything my auntie says, but she’s still my auntie. It’s a tricky one.”
Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts is currently steaming on HBO Max.
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