Keira Knightley Reacts To Fans Boycotting Her New ‘Harry Potter’ Project Over J.K. Rowling Backlash

HuffPostMonday, October 13, 2025 at 9:42:17 PM
Keira Knightley has responded to the backlash surrounding her new project related to the Harry Potter franchise, where fans are calling for a boycott due to J.K. Rowling's controversial remarks on transgender issues. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between artistic collaboration and personal beliefs, raising questions about accountability in the entertainment industry. Knightley's reaction is significant as it reflects the challenges faced by artists when their work intersects with contentious social issues.
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Keira Knightley recently revealed that she was unaware of the calls to boycott JK Rowling before she agreed to voice Dolores Umbridge in the new Harry Potter audiobooks. This statement comes amid ongoing debates surrounding Rowling's controversial views on trans rights. Knightley expressed a desire for mutual respect during these discussions, highlighting the complexities of engaging with beloved franchises while navigating sensitive social issues.
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Keira Knightley recently revealed that she was unaware of the ongoing boycott against the Harry Potter franchise before joining the cast of the audiobook adaptation. Despite many in the industry choosing to distance themselves from the series, Knightley will lend her voice to the character of Professor Umbridge in the upcoming Full-Cast Audio Editions. This situation highlights the complexities artists face when navigating public sentiment and personal choices in their careers.
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