Entertainment
Stephen Fry insists JK Rowling ‘will remain a friend’ as he speaks out over ‘anti-trans’ backlash
Provider: Getty
Stephen Fry confirmed he is still friends with JK Rowling following the backlash over comments she had made about the transgender community.
The Harry Potter author was at the centre of controversy last year with many accusing her of being ‘transphobic’ over a string of tweets – as many stars of the Wizarding film franchise publicly calling her out.
The actor opened up about their bond during an appearance on the Jordan B Peterson podcast, explaining that he didn’t have to ‘break links’ with her over the backlash.
‘I know this is bothering you, what’s happening in the broader public landscape,’ the host said. ‘You’ve got tangled up, for example, with JK Rowling, with what’s happening around her.’
To which Stephen replied: ‘Yes. She’s a friend and will remain a friend. But I’m also sorry that people are upset.
‘You know, the two things are not incompatible.
‘I don’t have to break links with JK Rowling to say that I have huge sympathy and I endorse the efforts of trans people everywhere to live the lives that they feel they want to lead.
‘And I hate how they are often treated. I recognise the courage it takes.’
Rowling first faced backlash when she commented on a story with the headline: ‘Opinion: Creating a more equal post-Covid-19 world for people who menstruate’.
Criticising the phrasing, she tweeted: ‘”People who menstruate”. I’m sure there used to be a word for those people. Someone help me out. Wumben? Wimpund? Woomud?
‘If sex isn’t real, there’s no same-sex attraction. If sex isn’t real, the lived reality of women globally is erased.
‘I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives. It isn’t hate to speak the truth.’
She denied being transphobic, insisting: ‘I respect every trans person’s right to live any way that feels authentic and comfortable to them. I’d march with you if you were discriminated against on the basis of being trans.
‘At the same time, my life has been shaped by being female. I do not believe it’s hateful to say so.’
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page we’d love to hear from you.
MORE : Stephen King was ‘blocked’ by JK Rowling after he tweeted ‘trans women are women’
