John Lithgow is making headlines after revealing his surprise at the backlash he's faced over joining HBO's highly anticipated 'Harry Potter' series, given the controversy surrounding its creator, J.K. Rowling.

In a candid interview with The Times of London, the celebrated actor opened up about the unexpected criticism, particularly due to Rowling's polarizing remarks regarding the transgender community. Lithgow admitted he focused mainly on the significance of the role, especially considering it may be one of his last major projects.

"Of course, it was a big decision because it's probably the last major role I'll play," Lithgow expressed. "It’s an eight-year commitment, so I was really contemplating my mortality and realizing this is a very good winding-down role."

However, the actor's contemplation was interrupted when a friend—a mother of a transgender child—sent him a heartfelt letter urging him to reconsider, titled "An Open Letter to John Lithgow: Please Walk Away from Harry Potter." Lithgow called this outreach a "canary in the coal mine" and raised a crucial question: why should Rowling's past controversies overshadow the project?

"I thought, ‘Why is this a factor at all?’" he pondered. He also expressed curiosity about how Rowling processes the backlash, hinting at a desire to discuss it with her if they meet in the future.

When pressed about whether the criticism had him second-guessing his involvement, Lithgow firmly responded, "Oh, heavens no." He remains committed to the role, undeterred by external opinions.

The controversy isn't new; in 2020, Rowling faced significant backlash for her comments suggesting that acknowledging transgender identities undermines the realities of women. This led to public statements from former 'Harry Potter' stars like Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, who opposed her views.

Despite the challenges, HBO has affirmed that Rowling's contentious views have not hindered the casting processes for the series, with HBO chief Casey Bloys noting her close involvement in selecting the creative team.

As the world watches, Lithgow's passionate commitment to the role raises questions about the intersection of art, artist, and audience reactions in today’s society.