Keira Knightley was unaware of the ongoing calls to boycott J.K. Rowling when she consented to be part of the impressive ensemble cast participating in the Harry Potter audiobooks.
“I didn’t know about that, no,” Knightley, who is 40, stated in a conversation with Decider on Friday, October 10. “I sincerely apologize for that.”
The author of the Harry Potter series, who is 60 years old, has faced backlash from fans due to her outspoken views against transgender rights.
“We’re all currently navigating a time where we must learn to coexist, aren’t we?” Knightley expressed. “Everyone holds different beliefs, and I hope we can cultivate mutual respect.”
Knightley will lend her voice to Professor Umbridge, a role previously portrayed by Imelda Staunton in the film series, for Audible’s Harry Potter: The Full Cast Audio Editions. The lineup features other notable actors such as Hugh Laurie, Matthew Macfadyen, Riz Ahmed, Michelle Gomez, Kit Harington, among others.
The Audible release of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is set for November 4, with subsequent editions scheduled for release, including Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets on December 16, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban on January 13, 2026, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire on February 10, 2026, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix on March 10, 2026, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince on April 14, 2026, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows on May 12, 2026.
Back in 2019, Rowling ignited controversy after she showed support for British researcher Maya Forstater, who was dismissed for making transphobic remarks. The subsequent year, she tweeted a contentious message aimed at the trans community.
“I’m sure there used to be a term for those who menstruate. Can someone remind me? Wumben? Wimpund? Woomud?” she stated in 2020. “If sex isn’t real, the lived experiences of women around the world are invalidated. I know and love trans individuals, but undermining the notion of sex takes away the ability to have meaningful discussions about their experiences. Speaking the truth isn’t hate.”
Rowling later reaffirmed her stance in an extensive essay.
“It’s insufficient for women to merely ally with trans individuals,” she asserted. “Women must recognize and accept that there are no substantial differences between trans women and themselves. However, many women have expressed previously that ‘woman’ is not a costume. The ‘inclusive’ language that identifies females as ‘menstruators’ and ‘people with vulvas’ seems dehumanizing and belittling to many women. While I can understand why trans activists view this language as compassionate and kind, for those of us who have faced violent derogatory terms, it’s neither neutral nor friendly; it feels aggressive and isolating.”
Numerous original Harry Potter cast members, including Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson, have voiced their opposition to Rowling’s statements. Recently, Watson discussed her complex relationship with Rowling.
“My greatest hope is that those who hold differing views from mine can still care for me, and I wish to extend the same kindness to those whose opinions I may not share,” Watson remarked during a podcast episode on “On Purpose With Jay Shetty” in September. “Engaging in dialogue is essential for me to navigate life.”
The actress emphasized her willingness to converse with Rowling, believing that discussions are crucial.
