John Lithgow’s Non-Binary Co-Star Shares Thoughts on the Emotional Impact of Their ‘Harry Potter’ Casting
As J.K. Rowling’s controversial views on transgender issues continue to overshadow the Harry Potter franchise, the actor cast as the new Dumbledore is speaking out about the implications of this ongoing discourse.
Aud Mason-Hyde, a non-binary actor who views John Lithgow as “in some capacity a mentor” from their collaboration in the upcoming film Jimpa (2025), expressed discomfort over Lithgow’s casting in the new HBO series. Mason-Hyde stated, “It feels vaguely hurtful.” They praised Lithgow’s talent and humanity, saying, “I never felt invalidated or questioned or doubted in my identity or in my transness by him. I consistently felt that he was a very loving and a very guiding co-star.”
Mason-Hyde elaborated on their feelings of hurt, indicating that Lithgow’s decision came after the film had been made and premiered. “But also I think that he’s making this decision after we had made the film and after we had premiered the film, can’t take away from what we had and the time that we spent together and the beautiful work that he does in this movie,” they added about the role.
Lithgow was cast as Albus Dumbledore in April 2023 for the HBO adaptation, which is developed by writer and showrunner Francesca Gardiner, alongside executive producer Mark Mylod. The collaboration is with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television.
Reflecting on this period, Mason-Hyde remarked, “It was definitely a difficult moment in time. I don’t think it’s worth speaking to John’s reasoning by any means, but I do also think that it’s a strange decision, for sure. And also I found it disconcerting, maybe, is the right word.”
The adaptation arrives amid Rowling’s ongoing backlash over her anti-transgender views, which have alienated fans and stirred criticism from former cast members. Notably, Lithgow has publicly stated that Rowling’s views did not deter him from accepting the role of Dumbledore.
Rowling has previously lauded a UK Supreme Court ruling that restricts the legal recognition of trans women. This decision sparked significant opposition, including a letter signed by over 400 individuals within the film and television industry, which called for action supporting trans rights. Among the signatories was Paapa Essiedu, another actor in the Harry Potter series, who will portray Professor Snape.
