Part 3/12:
The crux of the controversy revolves around Rowling's alleged misgendering of Willoughby, which has spiraled into accusations of transphobia. The heated online exchange garnered widespread media attention, with headlines sensationalizing the incident as Rowling “misgendering” Willoughby in a grotesque social media post. Critics argue that Rowling’s comments—based on her views about gender and biological sex—are offensive, while supporters see her as standing up for free speech and scientific truth.