Rupert Grint's return to Hogwarts raises eyebrows over trans allyship

The actor's decision to reprise his role in a Rowling-directed show sparks backlash from trans advocates.

Told by Claire Lawson · 30 August 2026

Rupert Grint is stepping back into the shoes of Ron Weasley for a 17-week run of Broadway's 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,' but not everyone is thrilled about it. The actor, who gained acclaim for his role in the original Harry Potter films, has faced criticism for participating in a show that financially supports J.K. Rowling, an author known for her outspoken anti-trans views.

Grint has previously voiced his support for the trans community, famously stating in 2020, "Trans women are women. Trans men are men," and emphasizing the importance of speaking out against discrimination. His stance was clear: he believed silence would only contribute to the problem. Yet, his recent decision to align with a franchise that directly benefits Rowling has led many to question whether his commitment to trans rights is genuine.

The backlash has included pointed remarks from activists, with Them writer Mathew Rodriguez sarcastically noting that Grint seems to have mastered the art of being invisible in his allyship. Critics on social media have echoed this sentiment, expressing disappointment that Grint would return to a project linked to someone funding legal battles against transgender rights in the U.K. and Ireland. The reality is that profits from shows like this inevitably bolster Rowling's wealth, which she channels into anti-trans campaigns.

As the curtain prepares to rise on this new chapter of Wizarding World nostalgia, questions linger about the implications of Grint's choice. Does his participation signal a troubling compromise, or can one still claim to support trans rights while engaging with Rowling's work? For many in the queer community, this is a painful reminder that allyship must be more than just words.