‘Harry Potter’ Author J.K. Rowling Mocks Trans Gamer For Calling ‘Hogwarts Legacy’ Support Harmful

J.K. Rowling is being criticized for mocking trans gamer Jessie Earl for voicing opposition towards Hogwarts Legacy on Twitter. 

Since the upcoming action role-playing game (RPG) is officially licensed under the Harry Potter franchise, purchasing the game results in financial benefits for Rowling. 

IN MEMORIAM 2022: 100 GREAT CELEBRITIES WHO DIED THIS YEAR!

The issue stems from the fact that Rowling is known for funding organizations that explicitly discriminate against trans people. 

Earlier this month, the author launched a “women-only” sexual violence support service in Edinburgh, Scotland that excludes trans women. A spokesperson for the service, Beira’s Place, stated, “Where appropriate, we will refer men or individuals identifying as trans women to other services.” 

Earl, a YouTuber and gamer, said that current support of the Harry Potter franchise is “harmful to trans people” in the tweet below.

She goes on to say that support for past works of Harry Potter is reasonable, admitting that she owns the first nine movies and seven books. 

Rowling responded, labeling Earl’s criticism as “purethink.” You can see the tweet below. 

Earl is not the first prominent person to share their opinions on the ethics of supporting Rowling’s work. The author is being accused of targeting and sending her followers against Earl because she’s a trans woman.

Game developer Avalanche Software and publisher Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment have officially stated that J.K. Rowling was not involved in the creation of Hogwarts Legacy. However, the question of royalties to the author was not addressed. 

Hogwarts Legacy is due to be released on February 10, 2023.