"I Will Never Forgive Her": Emma Watson Breaks Silence on Rowling Rift

Fell Out Over Transgender Comments in 2020
Watson Says, "The Possibility for Dialogue Remains Open"

British actress Emma Watson has made her first public statement in five years regarding her reported rift with J.K. Rowling, the author of the original "Harry Potter" series. Previously, the two had grown apart following Rowling's comments about transgender issues.

According to U.S. entertainment outlet Variety and others on September 28 (local time), Watson recently appeared on the American podcast "On Purpose" hosted by Jay Shetty. When asked about her views on Rowling's remarks, Watson said, "Just because I have my own love, support, and perspective, it doesn't mean that the memories I cherished with Jo (Rowling) in the past are invalidated." She added, "I don't think it's right to believe you have to choose one or the other." Watson continued, "Even if someone disagrees with my opinion, I hope they will still try to understand me, and I also want to be able to love those with whom I don't share the same views."

Emma Watson (left) and J.K. Rowling. Emma Watson J.K. Rowling SNS capture

She pointed to "the complete lack of proper conversation" as the most regrettable aspect, emphasizing that the possibility for dialogue remains open in the future.

The conflict between the two dates back to 2020. At that time, Rowling posted a series of messages interpreted as denying the transgender community and argued that "women's rights are being infringed upon." In response, Watson, along with Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint, the main actors of the film series, issued statements refuting Rowling's claims.

Watson stated, "Transgender people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being denied." Radcliffe said, "Transgender women are women," while Grint also commented, "Everyone has the right to live without being judged."

As the controversy grew, Rowling expressed her displeasure, saying, "The actors ruined the movies," and made strong remarks toward Watson, stating, "I will never forgive her." Even recently, Rowling has not given a direct response to Watson's willingness to reconcile, instead sharing a parody comedy video as her reaction.

Watson gained worldwide fame for her role as Hermione in the "Harry Potter" series. She later starred in films such as "Noah," "Beauty and the Beast," and "Little Women." She is currently on hiatus from acting and focusing on her studies at Oxford University in the United Kingdom.