Tom Felton, known for his iconic role as Draco Malfoy in the “Harry Potter” films, is making headlines after taking a stand alongside J.K. Rowling at the Tony Awards. The actor’s comments defending the controversial author have ignited both praise from conservatives and backlash from progressives as he prepares to make his Broadway debut.
At a glance:
• Tom Felton defended J.K. Rowling at the Tony Awards, praising her for “bringing the world together” through Harry Potter
• Felton stated he’s “not really that attuned” to Rowling’s views on transgender issues that have caused controversy
• The actor’s support contrasts with former co-stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint who have distanced themselves from Rowling
• Felton is set to become the first film series actor to join the Broadway cast of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”
• Liberal celebrities and activists have criticized Felton’s comments, accusing him of prioritizing his career over supporting transgender rights
Felton Stands With Rowling Amid Liberal Backlash
At the Tony Awards, Tom Felton stood firmly with Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling despite ongoing “controversy” surrounding her views on gender and biological sex. The 37-year-old actor, who played Draco Malfoy in all eight Harry Potter films, expressed gratitude toward Rowling for creating a worldwide phenomenon that has united generations of fans.
When asked if Rowling’s stance on transgender issues impacts his work in the wizarding world, Felton replied, “No, I can’t say that it does. I’m not really that attuned to it.” His response marks a significant departure from the positions taken by his former co-stars who have publicly opposed Rowling’s views.
And it also reveals that he isn’t on the side of the extremists: he presumably knows the truth, and he isn’t throwing Rowling under the bus.
Felton went on to praise Rowling’s contribution to global culture: “I am quick to remind myself and others that ‘Potter,’ for some reason, has brought more people together across the world and more generations than probably anything else has in the past 20 years, and I’m quick to celebrate that. It came from one person, and that’s her, so I’m very grateful.”
Tom Felton’s still backing J.K. Rowling, unlike Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson, who jumped ship: https://t.co/B1NUBr6BjH pic.twitter.com/OfNdVoLwVc
— Evie Magazine (@Evie_Magazine) May 10, 2025
Hollywood Divided Over Rowling’s Gender Stance
The controversy surrounding J.K. Rowling began in 2020 when she shared her views on biological sex and gender identity. Since then, several Harry Potter stars including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint have publicly distanced themselves from her opinions and voiced support for “transgender rights.”
Pedro Pascal, star of “The Last of Us” and “The Mandalorian,” meanwhile, has criticized Rowling’s statements as “heinous LOSER behavior.” Similarly, other liberal Hollywood figures have condemned her views while conservatives have defended her right to express concerns about biological sex and women’s spaces.
HBO has stood by Rowling’s involvement in the upcoming Harry Potter television series, stating she has the right to express her personal views. The network’s position reflects growing resistance to cancel culture as many entertainment companies are beginning to prioritize creative freedom over progressive political demands.
‘Harry Potter’ star Tom Felton explains why J.K. Rowling’s trans views didn’t impact Draco Malfoy return https://t.co/oJ1wJfyQ1L pic.twitter.com/VkkXh5Y8hs
— New York Post (@nypost) June 9, 2025
Malfoy Returns to Broadway
Felton’s comments come as he prepares to make his Broadway debut in “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” becoming the first actor from the original film series to join the stage production. The actor described his decision to join the Broadway cast as a “no-brainer,” noting he is now exactly the same age as his character Draco is portrayed in the play.
Despite the social media backlash from progressives, Felton has received substantial support from fans who appreciate his willingness to acknowledge Rowling’s literary and cultural contributions. The enduring popularity of the Harry Potter franchise demonstrates that many fans can separate the art from controversies surrounding its creator.
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Author: Editorial Team
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