Wil Wheaton rejected the upcoming Harry Potter series while voicing support for trans rights. The Star Trek star responded to a question about watching HBO’s reboot. Wheaton made his position clear in a blunt social media response. His comments came amid continued controversy surrounding J.K. Rowling.
Wil Wheaton used colorful language while rejecting the new Harry Potter streaming reboot
Wheaton, 54, recently responded to a Threads user discussing the upcoming series. The user asked followers whether they planned to watch the new Harry Potter show. Wheaton made clear that he would not be tuning in.
“As so many have said, f**k no we aren’t, we are standing with trans people,” Wheaton wrote. His response immediately drew another reaction from a user. That person said they were excited to watch the series.
The exchange highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding HBO’s reboot. Rowling has faced criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates over her comments about transgender people. Her involvement with the new series has also remained a major discussion point.
The author is serving as an executive producer on the upcoming adaptation. HBO executive Casey Bloys previously addressed questions about Rowling’s involvement. He said the company’s priority remained what would appear on screen.
“Our priority is what’s on the screen,” Bloys said. He described the Harry Potter story as being about love and self-acceptance. Bloys also confirmed Rowling’s insights would be helpful to the production.
The reboot will adapt Rowling’s seven books across multiple television seasons. Each season is expected to focus on one book. The series has also assembled a mix of young newcomers and established actors.
Dominic McLaughlin will portray Harry Potter in the new series. Arabella Stanton will play Hermione Granger, while Alastair Stout will portray Ron Weasley. John Lithgow, Paapa Essiedu and Janet McTeer lead the adult cast.
Meanwhile, several original Harry Potter stars have taken different positions. Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson previously spoke against Rowling’s views. Other franchise veterans, including Ralph Fiennes and Helena Bonham Carter, defended the author.
Wheaton’s comments add another celebrity voice to the debate. The actor has previously been outspoken about social issues. His latest statement made his position on the reboot unmistakable.
The HBO series has yet to premiere. For Wheaton, however, watching it does not appear to be an option.
