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’Harry Potter’ Star Throws Shade at J.K. Rowling, Talks Reboot Return

In the world of Harry Potter, the magic has always extended beyond the pages and screen, with its stars often taking center stage in conversations that go far beyond the wizarding world. Recently, one of the franchise’s beloved actors made headlines for his candid remarks about the upcoming Harry Potter reboot, sparking intrigue and curiosity among fans.

With tensions simmering over the involvement of the series’ creator, J.K. Rowling, the actor’s comments only add fuel to the ongoing debate. As the magic of Harry Potter continues to captivate audiences, it seems the story is far from over—both on screen and off.

Harry Potter looks up while wearing the Sorting Hat in the Hogwarts Great Hall in 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone'
Credit: Warner Bros.

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As excitement and skepticism surround the upcoming Harry Potter reboot series slated to premiere on Max (formerly HBO) in 2026, one Harry Potter star has made headlines for his comments on both the series and its creator, J.K. Rowling. David Tennant, who portrayed Barty Crouch Jr. in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005), recently added his own thoughts to the ongoing conversation about Rowling’s involvement with the reboot.

In a recent appearance at Planet Comicon Kansas City, Tennant was asked whether he would return to the Harry Potter universe for the new series. Known for his sharp wit and charm, Tennant responded with his characteristic humor, saying:

“I mean, they’re great stories,” the Good Omens actor responded, adding: “I feel like my contribution has probably been made.”

Continuing, Tennant joked: “I’m told there’s an executive producer who doesn’t love me on that show.”

The crowd erupted into laughter and applause, with Tennant adding: “I was told recently!”

Related: ‘Harry Potter’ Star Has Hilarious Reaction to Series Reboot

His comment earned a round of applause and laughter from the audience, but the subtle jab at Rowling, whose controversial views have led to tensions with many in the Harry Potter cast, wasn’t lost on fans and the media alike.

For those familiar with the Harry Potter series and its beloved stars, Tennant’s remark adds yet another layer to the ongoing drama surrounding Rowling’s involvement in the reboot. Despite her past contributions to the franchise, including penning the globally successful books and shaping an entire magical universe, Rowling’s public comments — particularly those centered on her anti-transgender beliefs — have led to widespread backlash.

Three people are engaged in conversation in front of an ornate stone archway with a hanging metal sign featuring a castle design. The archway and sign are themed to look like a fantasy or medieval setting, reminiscent of worlds once magical but now touched by controversy, like the debate around JK Rowling’s transphobic views. In the background, trees and part of a building can be seen.
Credit: Universal

She has become a divisive figure in recent years, with many distancing themselves from her views. This has caused a rift between Rowling and several of the original Harry Potter cast members, including Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter), Emma Watson (Hermione Granger), and Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley), who have all publicly expressed their support for the trans community.

David Tennant, who has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, finds himself caught in the middle of this controversy. He has previously been honored by organizations like GLAAD for his support of the LGBTQ+ community, and he has consistently spoken out against individuals whose political or social views do not align with his own.

Professor Snape and Barry Crouch Jr in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Credit: Warner Bros.

This tension between Tennant and Rowling adds a unique dynamic to the ongoing discussions about the Harry Potter reboot.

Interestingly, the Harry Potter reboot series has been met with mixed feelings from fans, some of whom are excited to see the magic of the wizarding world revisited in a new form, while others are skeptical of how the series will handle its sensitive subject matter, particularly with Rowling’s involvement.

The studio, Max, has remained tight-lipped about the exact role Rowling will play in the reboot, though it has confirmed that she will serve as an executive producer.

JK Rowling stands in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios
Credit: Universal Studios

HBO has defended her involvement, claiming that the show will “benefit” from her participation, and that she has the right to express her views. However, the network has yet to address the growing concerns over her controversial statements and the impact they may have on the Harry Potter brand.

Fans of the series have been vocal in their opinions on whether Rowling should be included in the reboot, with some arguing that her involvement is necessary to preserve the authenticity of the world she created. Others, however, believe that the reboot should stand on its own and separate itself from the baggage of its creator.

With the reboot on the horizon, we want to know: Should J.K. Rowling be involved with the new Harry Potter series? Would you like to see David Tennant and other stars from the original films return? Let us know in the comments!

Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

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