Tom Felton, known worldwide for his portrayal of Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter film series, has stepped back into the wizarding world for the first time in 14 years. The actor made a surprise return to the role in the Broadway production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, serving as part of the cast for the sequel play that continues the story decades after the original films.

Felton’s appearance was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from the audience, with cheers so loud that the performance had to be paused for 40 seconds while he absorbed the moment. Yet despite the excitement around his return, the actor has found himself at the centre of online criticism due to the continued association between the franchise and its original author, JK Rowling.

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Why Felton’s Return Sparked Backlash

In recent years, Rowling has been embroiled in a series of high-profile disputes due to her statements about the transgender community. Among the most widely circulated comments were her claims that she would “rather go to prison” than use a trans person’s preferred pronouns, along with repeated misgendering of broadcaster India Willoughby (source: BBC News).

These remarks have placed her in direct conflict with the three lead actors of the film franchise — Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint — all of whom have publicly distanced themselves from her views (source: The Independent).

Against this backdrop, some fans argued that Felton’s return to the Potter universe implicitly supports Rowling, prompting a wave of criticism across social media.

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Tom Felton’s Recent Response to the Rowling Debate

In an interview with Variety, Felton was asked whether Rowling’s statements had influenced his feelings about returning to the franchise. He responded:

“I can’t say it [impacts me], I’m not really that attuned to it. I have not seen anything bring the world together more than Potter. She’s responsible for that, so I’m incredibly grateful.”

This answer immediately divided the online community. Some critics described his remarks as a “privileged straight white man take”, arguing that the ability to ignore the controversy is itself a form of privilege. Others, however, praised Felton for focusing on the positive legacy of the books and showing respect to their creator.

Supporters of Rowling also rallied behind Felton, interpreting his comments as an endorsement of the author’s right to express her views.

Tom Felton has revealed the heartwarming reason why he is yet to watch himself back in Harry Potter (Jenny Anderson/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions)

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What Felton Has Said in the Past

This is not the first time the actor has addressed questions about Rowling. During a 2022 interview, he expressed a similar stance, saying:

“First of all, I don’t know enough about the specifics of what anyone said. My dog takes up far too much time for me to go into such matters.”

He went on to say that he considers himself:

“Pro-choice, pro-discussion, pro-human rights across the board, and pro-love.”

Felton also clarified that Rowling was not deeply involved in the day-to-day filmmaking process, contrary to public assumption. Even so, he acknowledged her foundational role in the series:

“No one has single-handedly done more for bringing joy to so many different generations and walks of life.”

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How Other Harry Potter Stars Have Responded

The franchise’s lead actors have taken far firmer stances on Rowling’s comments.

Daniel Radcliffe

Through a statement published by The Trevor Project, Radcliffe wrote:

“Transgender women are women. Any statement to the contrary erases the identity and dignity of transgender people.”

He apologised to fans who felt hurt by Rowling’s views, emphasising that their personal connection to the books remains valid.

Emma Watson

Watson echoed this sentiment, saying that trans people deserve to live without being “constantly questioned” about their identities.

Rupert Grint

Grint also issued a statement, reaffirming:

“I firmly stand with the trans community. Trans women are women. Trans men are men.”

Their statements remain some of the most widely shared celebrity responses in the debate surrounding Rowling.

JK Rowling and the main Harry Potter trio no longer see eye-to-eye (Jon Furniss via Getty Images)

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Felton’s Future in the Wizarding World

Although Felton has not given any indication of returning to the role on screen, his appearance in The Cursed Child suggests a willingness to remain connected to the franchise — albeit with a more neutral and cautious position regarding Rowling’s controversies.

Whether fans agree with his approach or not, Felton's return has reignited conversation about how actors can engage with cultural legacies that have become politically charged.

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Sources:

BBC News; The Independent; Variety; The Trevor Project; The Guardian