JK Rowling has celebrated a UK supreme court ruling that defines a woman as someone with biological sex, posting on social media with a cigar and referencing her support for women-only spaces and financial backing of For Women Scotland. The author, 59, has been vocal in her stance against gender-critical ideologies and has sparked controversy among fans and critics alike.
Rowling’s views have led to accusations of transphobia and criticism from fellow celebrities like Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson, who have expressed support for transgender rights. However, Rowling maintains that she respects every trans person’s right to live authentically.
The author has a long history of using social media to express her opinions on gender issues, dating back to 2019 when she tweeted in support of Maya Forstater, a tax specialist who was fired from her job for opposing transgender rights. Rowling has also been involved in high-profile debates about the concept of sex and its relationship to women’s experiences.
Despite the backlash, Rowling remains committed to her views, saying “I do not walk around my house thinking about my legacy… I care about now.” The author is a multimillionaire philanthropist who supports various humanitarian causes through her Volant charitable trust.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/apr/18/jk-rowling-harry-potter-gender-critical-campaigner