John Lithgow has responded to the backlash over his casting as Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series executive produced by the franchise’s controversial author, J.K. Rowling.

The Golden Globe winner, known for The Crown and Conclave, has been cast as the beloved Hogwarts headmaster, Albus Dumbledore. However, despite landing the iconic role, the actor’s social media account has been flooded by comments calling out his involvement in the upcoming series.

What did John Lithgow say about his Harry Potter casting backlash?

Lithgow revealed in an interview with The Sunday Times that he did not expect to receive such backlash over his casting as Dumbledore. He also shared that a friend had previously texted him a link to an article titled “An Open Letter to John Lithgow: Please Walk Away from Harry Potter,” which claimed that Rowling “has a long history of anti-trans statements” and has “attacked trans kids directly.”

“No, absolutely not,” said Lithgow when asked whether he had expected the backlash. “Of course, it was a big decision because it’s probably the last major role I’ll play. It’s an eight-year commitment so I was just thinking about mortality and that this is a very good winding-down role.”

He continued, “I thought, why is this a factor at all? I wonder how JK Rowling has absorbed it. I suppose at a certain point I’ll meet her and I’m curious to talk to her.”

The actor then said, “Oh, heavens no,” expressing no regrets about his involvement in the Harry Potter series.

Rowling has faced criticism due to her comments and views against the trans community. Several original Harry Potter stars — including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Bonnie Wright, Sean Biggerstaff, and others — have publicly condemned her statements.

Despite the criticism, the Harry Potter series reboot is confirmed to be moving forward, with more stars attached to the project.