Keira Knightley has insisted that she “was not aware” of the controversy surrounding the Harry Potter series when she agreed to join the cast of the audiobook. The franchise has faced a boycott from some fans due to author J.K. Rowling’s critical views of transgender advocates’ battle to be legally recognised as women.
Last month, it was announced that the Atonement star would lend her voice to the character of Professor Umbridge in Pottermore Publishing and Audible’s Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions. Now, Keira has expressed regret and defended her decision in a recent interview.
“I was not aware of that, no. I’m very sorry. You know, I think we’re all living in a period of time right now where we’re all going to have to figure out how to live together, aren’t we?” She told Decider, “And we’ve all got very different opinions. “I hope that we can all find respect.” The news comes as Ariana Grande subtly trolls JK Rowling amid Emma Watson feud.
After Rowling publicly supported the UK’s Supreme Court ruling that prevents transgender women from being legally recognized as women, over 400 individuals signed a letter urging the film and TV industry to take action on trans rights.
Among those who signed was Paapa Essiedu, who has been cast as Professor Snap in the forthcoming Harry Potter series on HBO.
Michelle Gomez, a Glasgow-born actress, has also faced criticism for her role in an audible cast.
She addressed the controversy via Instagram Stories this summer, stating, as reported by Entertainment Weekly, “To my LGBTQ+ fans, and especially the trans community: I want to speak directly to the concerns that have been raised about my involvement in this project.
“I hear you, and I understand why this is painful for many. I want to be clear that I stand with trans people, and I support trans rights – fully and without hesitation.
“When I accepted this role, I did so as someone who has always loved the stories and what they meant to so many – especially those who found comfort and identity in that world.
“I now understand more clearly how deeply complicated and hurtful this association can feel, and I take that seriously.
“Being an ally means listening even when it’s uncomfortable and taking accountability where it’s needed. I’m committed to doing both.”