Published: October 13, 2025 03:01 PM IST
Keira Knightley will voice Professor Umbridge in the upcoming audiobook series. The actor talked about the discussions surrounding the book and the author.
Actress Keira Knightley has admitted that she is unaware of the heated debate going on over the Harry Potter franchise, even though many Hollywood stars have openly spoken out against it. The actor, who is busy promoting his Netflix release The Woman in Cabin 10, revealed deadline He was not ‘aware’ that many people have called for a boycott of the Harry Potter franchise in recent days over JK Rowling’s anti-trans statements.
what keira said
When asked about the boycott, Keira said, “I wasn’t aware of it, no. I’m very sorry. You know, I think we’re all living in a time right now where we all have to figure out how to live together, right? And we all have very different opinions. I hope we can all be respected.”
Keira has been cast as Professor Umbridge in Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Edition. The new audiobook series also features a stellar cast, including Hugh Laurie as Albus Dumbledore, Matthew Macfadyen as Lord Voldemort, Riz Ahmed as Professor Snape, and Michelle Gomez as Professor McGonagall. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone will be the first title to be released on Audible on November 4.
What is the controversy?
Meanwhile, the main controversy surrounding JK Rowling is related to her views on the transgender community. Many fans and actors, including Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe, have accused him of being transphobic for his views on gender identity.
Emma’s recent comments on the podcast with Jay Shetty heated up the debate again. She recalled fond memories of working with the Harry Potter author and said she may disagree with Rowling’s views on the trans community. JK Rowling criticized Emma, ​​saying that she leads a privileged life and is not qualified to speak on sensitive matters such as the debate over trans identity.
