Actor Nicola Coughlan has publicly distanced herself from the upcoming Harry Potter television series, citing disagreement with recent comments by author J.K. Rowling related to trans rights and legal definitions in the United Kingdom. In an Instagram Story, Coughlan shared a link to an article titled This Is a New Low for JK Rowling and added, “Keep your new ‘Harry Potter’ lads. Wouldn’t touch it with a 10 foot pole.”
Her post followed a Supreme Court ruling on April 17 that the terms “women” and “sex” in the U.K.’s Equality Act refer specifically to biological sex. Rowling expressed approval of the ruling on social media with a post that included the phrase, “I love it when a plan comes together,” along with hashtags including #SupremeCourt and #WomensRights. The post included an image of Rowling smoking a cigar, styled after a television character known for strategic plotting.
Coughlan, known for her role in Bridgerton, has been an outspoken supporter of LGBTQ+ causes and has raised funds for organizations supporting trans individuals. Following the court’s decision, she previously described the outcome as “stomach-churning and disgusting,” and criticized those who celebrated it.
Rowling’s stance has continued to cause divisions among actors and fans associated with the franchise. In April, she criticized former Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson for their public support of trans people. Rowling said the actors had undermined what she described as “hard-won rights” for women and dismissed any notion of future reconciliation, writing that they could “save their apologies.”
I love it when a plan comes together.#SupremeCourt #WomensRights pic.twitter.com/agOkWmhPgb
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) April 16, 2025
Radcliffe has previously stated, “Transgender women are women,” and described statements that deny that as harmful. Watson echoed the view by writing, “Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned.” Rupert Grint, who portrayed Ron Weasley in the films, also voiced public support for trans individuals.
The planned television adaptation of Harry Potter, currently in development under Warner Bros. Discovery’s Max platform, was first announced in 2024. At the time, the network issued a statement affirming its ongoing collaboration with Rowling, who remains involved in the project. HBO described the long-standing working relationship and acknowledged Rowling’s role in the development of the franchise.
Coughlan’s response comes as public discussions around the ruling and Rowling’s reaction have intensified. Her comments are among the most direct made by a high-profile actor outside of the original Harry Potter cast and have contributed to a wider reaction across the entertainment industry in the U.K.
