J.K. Rowling Sparks Backlash After Supporting U.K. Supreme Court Ruling Against Trans Women -

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“Harry Potter” author J.K. Rowling is facing renewed backlash following a series of social media posts in support of a recent U.K. Supreme Court ruling that excludes trans women from legal protections under the definition of “woman” in the Equality Act. The April 16 decision determined that “woman” refers strictly to biological sex, even for those with a gender recognition certificate.

Rowling, who has frequently drawn criticism for her views on gender and sex, celebrated the ruling on X (formerly Twitter), calling it “TERF VE Day”—a controversial reference to the end of World War II in Europe. She posted a photo of herself on a beach with a drink and a cigar, captioned with, “I love it when a plan comes together,” alongside hashtags such as “#SupremeCourt” and ‘”#WomensRights.” She also reportedly donated £70,000 (about $93,000) to For Women Scotland, the group that brought the case to court.

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The ruling has sparked concern among LGBTQ+ advocates, who warn it could lead to increased discrimination against trans individuals, particularly in employment and public services. While the court insisted that trans people would still be protected under other aspects of the law, critics argue the ruling undermines fundamental rights.

Celebrities and former “Harry Potter” stars have distanced themselves from Rowling over her stance on transgender issues. Actors Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, and Eddie Redmayne have all previously condemned her comments. Radcliffe, in a 2023 interview with The Atlantic, expressed sadness over the divide and revealed he has had no contact with Rowling since 2020.

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“Bridgerton” star Nicola Coughlan joined the chorus of critics this week, sharing a headline that called Rowling’s actions “a new low.” In an Instagram video, Coughlan said she was “completely horrified” by the ruling and pledged to match donations to trans advocacy group Not a Phase.

“To see an already marginalized community being further attacked and attacked in law is really stomach-churning,” she said. “And to see people celebrating it is more stomach-churning and disgusting.”