John Lithgow recently voiced his thoughts on what he calls a “war on empathy” and discussed his role as Albus Dumbledore in the new HBO Max Harry Potter series, amidst the backlash over J.K. Rowling’s controversial views on transgender issues.
At a talk during the International Film Festival Rotterdam, Lithgow, who has signed an eight-year contract for the series at the age of 80, called the commitment “insane.”
When asked how he feels about Rowling’s stance, he shared, “I take the issue extremely seriously. J.K. Rowling has created a remarkable world beloved by many. Her stories emphasize acceptance, the battle between good and evil, and the importance of kindness.”
Lithgow expressed surprise at Rowling’s views, stating, “It’s ironic and inexplicable. I’ve read about her opinions, but I’ve never met her. She’s not part of this production. The team behind the series is talented, and I’m excited to work with them.”
He acknowledged the mixed reactions to his casting, saying, “It upsets me when people oppose my involvement. However, the Harry Potter series itself promotes kindness and acceptance. It feels odd to me that those values are at odds with her views.”
Lithgow emphasized the depth of the role, noting, “Dumbledore is a beautiful character with rich layers, largely due to the creative team behind the series. Navigating this controversy was tough, and it made me uncomfortable that some wanted me to step back, but I chose to stay on.”
Beyond the film, Lithgow commented on broader issues, saying, “Right now, we’re experiencing a war on empathy, and I stand firmly on the side of empathy.”
In recent years, discussions surrounding empathy have gained traction. A report from the World Economic Forum highlighted that 61% of people feel a lack of empathy in today’s society. This disconnect can often lead to misunderstandings and conflicts, much like the one surrounding the Harry Potter series.
As conversations about empathy continue to evolve, Lithgow’s stance reflects a growing desire for compassion in a divisive world. His commitment to Dumbledore brings a sense of hope that storytelling can foster understanding and acceptance, even amidst controversy.
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