HBO is navigating renewed controversy over J.K. Rowling ahead of its Christmas reboot of the Harry Potter novels, as cast members continue to be pressed on the author's views on gender in press interviews. Actress Bel Powley, who plays Petunia Dursley in the new series, told The Telegraph she "strongly disagrees" with Rowling's stance and believes the trans community deserves "safety, dignity, respect and total acceptance," while also affirming her love for the books and the franchise she grew up with.

Her comments follow similar remarks from John Lithgow, who plays Albus Dumbledore, and echo HBO's broader efforts to manage the show's public perception, including reworking promotional footage after complaints about its colour grading. The series will adapt all seven Harry Potter novels, and the studio appears keen to separate the franchise's popularity from ongoing criticism of Rowling as the release date approaches.