JK Rowling hits back at Emma Watson over transgender rights rift

JK Rowling has hit back at “ignorant” Emma Watson as their feud over trans issues rumbles on.

- BANG SHOWBIZ

The Harry Potter author has suggested that Watson's criticism of her critical stance on transgender issues has poured “more petrol on the flames” of the abuse she has been subjected to, even though the 35-year-old star suggested last week that she still “treasures” Rowling despite their differing opinions.

Rowling has suggested that Watson and her costars Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint - who starred as Hermione Granger, Harry Potter and Ron Weasley respectively in the film franchise — had used their connection to Potter to act as “de facto spokespeople” for the series.

In a lengthy statement posted on social media, the 60-year-old author wrote: “Emma and Dan in particular have both made it clear over the last few years that they think our former professional association gives them a particular right — nay, obligation - to critique me and my views in public.

“Years after they finished acting in Harry Potter, they continue to assume the role of de facto spokespeople for the world I created.”