While a number of cast and crew members working on HBO’s Harry Potter disagree with creator J.K. Rowling’s views and are supportive of transgender people, they are actively, and perhaps unwittingly, complicit in her actions.

Forbes estimates that she will earn $20 million from the upcoming series, on top of the millions she receives in royalties each year. With this money she will continue to sponsor and stir up anti-trans sentiment, further endangering the lives of transgender people within the UK. In April, the Supreme Court ruled that the legal definition of “woman” in the Equality Act 2010 only refers to someone born biologically female, excluding all trans women, even those who hold gender recognition certificates. The case was brought to the court by the group ‘For Women Scotland’ which is funded by Rowling. Since the ruling, further calls have been made to rewrite gender recognition laws. 

We ask that those who support trans rights donate a portion (or all, if possible) of their salary to trans charities. Put your money where your mouth is and make a difference. If there is a reason impeding you from leaving this project or if you are struggling morally with your decision then please do something to show your support for trans lives.

This will not be the first time actors have donated their salaries. In recent years, Anna Kendrick donated her salary from Woman of the Hour​, Timothee Chalamet and Rebecca Hall both donated their pay from A Rainy Day in New York, and Michael Sheen is now a “not-for-profit actor” who uses his income from acting to support charitable causes.

Please consider donating your salary and continue to show active support for trans rights as the show continues in the years to come.