John Lithgow recently addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding J.K. Rowling during an appearance at the Rotterdam Film Festival. He spoke about his role as Dumbledore in the forthcoming “Harry Potter” series, discussing the impact of Rowling’s statements on the trans community.
John Lithgow on Dumbledore Amid J.K. Rowling Controversy
While promoting his film “Jimpa,” Lithgow emphasized the significance of Rowling’s work. He praised her contributions to literature, stating, “She has created this amazing canon for young people.” He described the essence of her stories as encompassing themes of “good versus evil” and “kindness versus cruelty.” Lithgow expressed confusion over Rowling’s views, stating that he finds them “ironic and inexplicable.”
Understanding the Backlash
During the festival, Lithgow reflected on the pushback he faced regarding his involvement in the series. He noted, “It upsets me when people are opposed to me having anything to do with this.” He reassured his audience that the “Potter” legacy promotes kindness and acceptance, countering the allegations of transphobia associated with Rowling. Lithgow remarked, “Dumbledore is a beautiful role,” expressing his commitment to the character despite any controversy.
- Age: Lithgow recently turned 80.
- Contract Duration: He signed to portray Dumbledore for the next eight years.
Audience Reaction at the Festival
Despite his defense, a member of the audience voiced their disappointment, departing in protest. Lithgow acknowledged the variety of opinions, saying, “I’m perfectly ready for collisions of opinion.” His comments sparked a heated discussion that overshadowed the film premiere.
Insights on ‘Jimpa’
In “Jimpa,” Lithgow stars alongside Olivia Colman in a story inspired by director Sophie Hyde’s personal experiences. The film explores themes of identity and family, featuring a father who comes out later in life. Lithgow described his collaboration with Hyde as enriching, praising her emotional storytelling.
He shared fond memories of working with the Dutch crew, stating, “They’re the most welcoming people in the world.” Lithgow’s connection with his castmates, including Colman, proved to be a warm and engaging experience. Colman, known for her emotional authenticity, earned praise from Lithgow for her performance.
The Director’s Personal Narrative
Sophie Hyde’s background informed much of the film’s narrative. She revealed that her father, who came out as gay after she was born, faced challenges during the AIDS crisis. Hyde’s experiences influenced the film’s exploration of love and acceptance within families.
Acting Reflections
Lithgow offered insights into his acting craft. He remarked on the constant evolution of storytelling, stating, “Styles change, but the basics of storytelling are very much the same.” He believes that the ultimate goal for any actor is to create a suspension of disbelief, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the narrative. He fondly recalled his experiences entertaining children and how their innocent perceptions of reality drive his performance aspirations.
As Lithgow advances in his career, he reflects on the importance of empathy in storytelling. He believes “Jimpa” encapsulates this need during turbulent times, emphasizing the character’s journey towards understanding and kindness.
