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One example is Tom Felton, who famously played Draco Malfoy. When he announced he would reprise his role in a Broadway adaptation of The Cursed Child, media outlets seized the opportunity to question him about Rowling and the wider controversy. Instead of engaging in political debates, Felton chose to focus on his gratitude for being part of the Harry Potter universe, saying:
“She created this world. I’m really grateful to be a part of it.”
This straightforward stance, rooted in appreciation rather than activism, was met with an immediate flood of intense criticism. Many fans and media outlets labeled his response as privileging perceived “straight white male privilege,” accusing him of ignoring the plight of marginalized groups.