Emma Watson has opened up about her strained relationship with Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling, saying she still “values” her memories with the writer despite their differing views on transgender issues.
Rowling has faced backlash since 2020 after posting tweets and an essay that many criticised as transphobic. At the time, Watson voiced her support for the transgender community.
Watson, who played Hermione Granger in all eight Harry Potter films, was recently asked to comment on Rowling’s previous remarks that she could “never forgive” the actress for having a different view.
“I really don’t believe that by having had that experience and holding the love, support, and views that I have means that I can’t and don’t treasure Jo and the person that I had personal experiences with,” Watson said in a guest appearance on the On Purpose podcast.
Watson further explained that she is “open” to having a dialogue with Rowling and that she hopes people will understand that she can still hold “love” for the people who don’t share the same values as her.
“I will never believe that one negates the other and that my experience of that person, I don’t get to keep and cherish. I think it’s my deepest wish that people who don’t agree with my opinion will love me, and I hope I can keep loving people who I don’t necessarily share the same opinion with,” the actress stated.
Watson, who last appeared in Greta Gerwig ‘s Little Women, is currently on an acting break for six years now.
While she did not say when she will return to the spotlight or whether she has retired full-time, the former child star said that being away from acting was “the healthiest and happiest she has ever been.” – Philippine Daily Inquirer/Asia News Network
