In a revealing essay, acclaimed author JK Rowling shared that her loved ones “begged” her to keep her controversial views on trans women private. Rowling’s stance, asserting that trans women are not women, has received global criticism, including from Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson. In “The Women Who Wouldn’t Say Wheesht,” Rowling details her decision to speak out despite these pleas, feeling “guilt” for her silence but ultimately supporting Maya Forstater in 2019. The backlash was immediate, with many fans distancing themselves. Despite this, Rowling remains steadfast in defending women’s rights.
