John Lithgow Defends Dumbledore Role Amidst Controversy

0:00Today is March 21st. Here's what's trending in Entertainment. John Liskow, the 80-year-old actor, landed the role of Albus Dumbledore in the new HBO Harry Potter series last October. Right away, he faced heavy backlash from fans upset over JK Rowling's views on trans rights. The pressure got so intense that Liskow admitted he nearly walked away from the part altogether. In a recent New York Times interview, he said the criticism really stung and left him uncomfortable. A friend even sent him an open letter, urging him to quit. Still, Liskow pushed forward, stressing that he doesn't share Rowling's opinions on trans issues. Fans and some co-stars voice strong opposition, including his non-binary colleague, Aud Mason Hyde, from the film, Jimba. Aud called the casting hurtful and disconcerting, though they praised Liskow as a talented and kind person to work with. Liskow fired back by calling Rowling stance ironic, and noting she's not deeply involved in the show's production, despite her executive producer. Credit. He highlighted

1:03the Harry Potter story's themes against intolerance and bigotry, and raved about the impressive cast and crew, including Janet McTeeer, as Minerva McGonigal, and Pia Pah Siedu, as Severus Snape. Moving ahead with the role means Liskow knows this debate will follow him in every interview from here on out, but he's ready for the clashes and committed to bringing Dumbledore to life near the 15 years after the last movie.