John Lithgow at the Olivier Awards earlier this month

John Lithgow has reacted to the controversy surrounding his decision to accept a role in the new TV adaptation of the Harry Potter novels.

Back in February, the two-time Oscar nominee revealed he would be playing Albus Dumbledore in the new HBO series, which will devote one season to each of the Harry Potter books.

While John himself expressed his excitement at putting his spin on the Hogwarts headmaster, many were disappointed at his casting due to the involvement of author JK Rowling – who has become a polarising figure due to her commentary on the trans community in recent years – in the show.

In a new interview with

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