Listen, this is a really tough topic. We never want to think that J.K. Rowling could do anything bad. She’s the mother of modern magical musings, she has seen us through the darkest of times, and given us quotes to last a lifetime. She also shaped the way we feel about humanity, and the way that we judge the world. We all read those recent studies claiming that those of us who read Harry Potter as children grew up to be more empathetic, thoughtful and smart. So, naturally we recall her words in this moment of crisis:
“It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” –Chamber of Secrets.
So, J.K. Rowling has made a choice. She has spoken out regarding the anger fans have been displaying at her, concerning Johnny Depp’s role in the Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them franchise. Depp recently had a very public divorce from actress Amber Heard, and while the two have settled, Heard’s allegations of domestic abuse from Depp linger over him. There have also been claims against Depp from those who have worked on set with him in the past, saying he has acted abrasively and inappropriately with co-workers. All of these marks against his character have now come to a head, as we’re getting promo for the upcoming movie Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Crimes of Grindelwald. Depp will play a central role as Gellert Grindelwald himself, and fans want to know why Rowling didn’t put a stop to his participation. Afterall, he could have been recast, couldn’t he? Then comes the fall out. While we’re not sure what the best action plan was, what we got was a statement by Rowling defending Depp’s casting, and saying that “[she and the filmmakers] are not only comfortable sticking with [their] original casting, but genuinely happy to have [Depp] playing a major character in the movies.”
To say the least, this didn’t sit well with fans. Amber Heard herself has spoken out about Rowling’s defense, saying “it’s just not right.” Journalists and fans have said that Rowling’s post blatantly goes against the #MeToo movement. There are calls to boycott the upcoming movie, since you can use your dollars to effectively show where you stand. Others are calling for a full-on Rowling boycott ⸺ full-on Harry Potter bans, and disassociation from her brand. To be honest, these are some drastic things we are hearing. We never thought we’d see the day fans would use Rowling’s own inspirational quotes against her, and her name would get dragged through the mud. Nevertheless, this is where we are.
You can catch Rowling’s full post here, and form your own opinion.
Originally posted on GoRead.com
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