Harry Potter’s 20th anniversary special Return to Hogwarts begins streaming on January 1. While most of the major players involved in the films – the actors, directors and even the producers – have returned to share their experiences, the creator of the Harry Potter universe is conspicuous by her absence. Author JK Rowling only appears in the special through archival footage shot earlier. A recent article has claimed that it was she who refused to be a part of the special. Ever since news emerged that JK Rowling wasn’t an active part of the reunion, many had speculated that she was dropped by the makers owing to recent controversies. In the last couple of years, several comments from the author have attracted criticism with many calling her transphobic. On her part, Rowling has denied this tag and stated in the past that ‘trans lives matter’ and ‘trans rights are human rights.’ -Hindustan Times
