This is why J.K. Rowling missed Harry Potter Reunion!
J.K. Rowling has provided an explanation for her glaring absence from the “Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts” special, revealing that she turned down an invitation to take part in it.
Only few bits from a 2019 interview with the original “Harry Potter” series’ author were used in “Return to Hogwarts.” Critics and viewers alike remarked on her scant appearance during the special’s HBO Max premiere on January 1 of this year.
It was largely assumed that J.K. Rowling’s absence could be linked to her controversial recent public image. Since she has continued to express opinions that are viewed as harmful to the trans community, such as opposing legislation that would make it simpler for trans persons to legally alter their gender, the author has been embroiled in controversy.
Since J.K. Rowling originally drew criticism, franchise stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint have all made public declarations in favor of the trans community. She wasn’t a cast favourite anymore so her absence made sense to many.
The British novelist hasn’t changed her mind about her opinions, and she even went farther by penning an article on them while claiming that she is transphobic.
J.K. Rowling spills the beans about her absence
However, J.K. Rowling asserts that she chose not to participate in “Return to Hogwarts” in a Saturday interview with Graham Norton on Virgin Radio UK.
Refuting Norton’s claim that she was “excluded” from the reunion special, Rowling said, “I wasn’t, actually. She clarified that she was requested to participate in that. But she made the decision that she didn’t want to do it.
“In my opinion, the movies were more important than the books, J.K. Rowling continued. “Don’t. Nobody said that. I was requested to do it, but I declined.
According to an earlier story from Entertainment Weekly, Rowling had been asked to take part in the event, but her team “decided the writer’s recorded comments were acceptable.”
The “Potter” spinoff “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore,” which she co-wrote with Steve Kloves, had its red carpet debut after Rowling, who had missed the anniversary special, made a rare public appearance. However, neither did Rowling interact with the cast of the movie in a group shot or give a press conference at the event.