In early 2026, John Lithgow took on the role of Albus Dumbledore in the newly announced HBO Max adaptation of J.K. Rowling's beloved Harry Potter series. His casting sparked significant controversy due to Rowling's outspoken views on transgender issues, which many consider anti-trans. Lithgow publicly addressed this backlash during a discussion at the International Film Festival Rotterdam. He expressed his discomfort with the criticism he faced and acknowledged the weight of the decision he made, particularly at the age of 80, for an eight-year commitment to the role. Despite the criticism, he emphasized the themes of acceptance and kindness found in the Harry Potter stories, describing them as central to the series. Lithgow also highlighted that he had never met Rowling and stressed that she is not involved in the production of the series. He expressed disappointment over some people's opposition to his involvement, yet reiterated his commitment to the project, referring to it as an extraordinary opportunity to work with talented creators. Meanwhile, he lamented what he termed a growing 'war on empathy' in contemporary society, suggesting that this environment of polarization makes his role all the more vital. He remarked on the importance of continuing to create and adapt stories that promote kindness and understanding, especially in light of the backlash he faced. Lithgow’s reflections on the situation underscored his belief in the power of literature to foster empathy and connection among diverse audiences, despite the controversies surrounding its creators.