## Actor David Tennant Addresses Disagreement with J.K. Rowling on Transgender Rights
Actor David Tennant, known for his roles in *Doctor Who* and the *Harry Potter* series, has publicly shared his perspective on the ongoing debate surrounding transgender rights and his differing views with author J.K. Rowling. His comments come after a recent Supreme Court ruling that clarified the legal definition of “women” within the 2010 Equality Act.
Speaking on ITV1’s new program, *The Assembly*, Tennant voiced his concern over what he described as the “demonization” and marginalization of the transgender community. He drew a parallel between current rhetoric and past discriminatory policies.
“When I was growing up, we had Section 28 – a law designed to stifle discussions about homosexuality in schools. It’s now seen as incredibly outdated and absurd. And I believe the way the trans community is being portrayed and treated mirrors that history; it’s become a political pawn.”
Tennant, who played Barty Crouch Jr. in *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*, has previously engaged with Rowling on this subject. He acknowledged her significant contributions to literature while emphasizing the importance of acceptance.
“J.K. Rowling is a phenomenal writer who’s gifted us incredible stories, and I wish her nothing but success,” he stated. “But ultimately, I hope we can all cultivate an environment where people are simply allowed to exist without unnecessary interference.”
The Supreme Court’s recent decision determined that while trans women with a Gender Recognition Certificate may be excluded from single-sex spaces if it’s deemed proportionate, the definition of “women” within the Equality Act pertains solely to biological females.
Tennant’s stance represents a shift in tone compared to previous exchanges with Rowling. Their disagreements escalated last November when Rowling posted on X (formerly Twitter) seemingly referencing Tennant’s support for Kemi Badenoch, then newly elected Conservative Party leader, after he had publicly criticized her.
At the British LGBT Awards in June 2024, Tennant had expressed frustration with Badenoch’s views and used strong language to describe those critical of transgender rights. Rowling responded by labeling him part of a “Gender Taliban.”
- June 2024: David Tennant criticizes Kemi Badenoch at the British LGBT Awards.
- November 2023: J.K. Rowling responds to Tennant’s criticism with a post on X.
- Recent Ruling: Supreme Court clarifies legal definition of “women.”
Following the ruling, Badenoch, speaking on GB News, asserted her position and took aim at Tennant.
“I dedicated my time as equalities minister to this very issue and received considerable criticism, even from David Tennant. I was correct. The law now clearly reflects a fundamental truth – men are men, and women are women.”
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision as providing “clarity” on the matter, prompting a sharp retort from Rowling who accused him of cowardice.
