Scottish actress Michelle Gomez has addressed criticism following her announcement as Professor McGonagall in the forthcoming Harry Potter audiobook series, publishing a statement on Instagram affirming her solidarity with transgender people.
The performer faced immediate backlash from LGBTQ+ supporters after news emerged of her involvement in the Audible project, with many expressing disappointment given author JK Rowling's contentious stance on transgender rights.
In a Wednesday evening Instagram Stories post, Gomez directly addressed "my LGBTQ+ fans, and especially the trans community", acknowledging their concerns about her participation in the project.
The actress declared unequivocal support for transgender rights whilst recognising the distress her involvement might cause to those who have felt marginalised by Rowling's public statements.
Michelle Gomez will star in the upcoming audio audiobook series
|GETTY
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The audiobook series was revealed earlier this week, featuring an ensemble cast that includes Hugh Laurie as Albus Dumbledore, Matthew Macfadyen as Lord Voldemort, Riz Ahmed as Professor Snape, and Cush Jumbo as narrator.
The announcement received a subdued reception from many quarters, with trans activists immediately questioning why prominent performers would associate themselves with the franchise given Rowling's divisive reputation.
JK Rowling has faced a huge backlash for her views on the trans debate | GETTY
Gomez joins over 200 actors set to participate in the full-cast audio adaptations, with the first instalment, The Philosopher's Stone, scheduled for release this November through Audible.
The project represents another expansion of the Harry Potter universe, alongside HBO's upcoming television adaptation, which has faced similar criticism.
"I want to speak directly to the concerns that have been raised about my involvement in this project," Gomez wrote. "I hear you, and I understand why this is painful for many. I want to be clear that I stand with trans people, and I support trans rights – fully and without hesitation."
The actress explained she had initially accepted the role as someone who cherished the stories and their significance to fans who "found comfort and identity in that world".
"I now understand more clearly how deeply complicated and hurtful this association can feel, and I take that seriously," she continued.
"Being an ally means listening even when it's uncomfortable and taking accountability where it's needed. I'm committed to doing both."
Michelle Gomez's statement
|ISTAGRAM
Rowling's controversial positions have included deliberately misgendering transgender public figures and contributing substantial funds to organisations challenging transgender rights.
The author donated tens of thousands of pounds to a campaign group that initiated legal proceedings resulting in the UK Supreme Court's ruling that the legal definition of a woman should encompass only those assigned female at birth.
JK Rowling
| PAOther Harry Potter franchise participants have faced similar criticism, with Nick Frost stating in June: "She's allowed her opinion and I'm allowed mine, they just don't align in any way, shape or form."
Paapa Essiedu, cast as Professor Snape in HBO's series, attracted criticism after signing an open letter supporting transgender people in entertainment.