Summary (tl;dr)

John Lithgow is currently trending due to his starring role in the new Broadway play "Giant," which delves into the antisemitism controversy surrounding author Roald Dahl, and for recently revealing he almost exited the upcoming HBO "Harry Potter" series over J.K. Rowling's anti-transgender views.

Essential Background

Renowned children's author Roald Dahl faced accusations of antisemitism following remarks he made in 1983, a controversial aspect of his legacy that the play "Giant" explores. Separately, J.K. Rowling, creator of the "Harry Potter" series, has drawn considerable criticism for her anti-transgender statements in recent years, leading to public debate about actors' involvement in projects associated with her. John Lithgow had previously been cast as Albus Dumbledore in the forthcoming HBO Max adaptation of the "Harry Potter" books.

The Full Story

Actor John Lithgow is currently a trending topic, primarily due to two significant and timely events. He is starring on Broadway as Roald Dahl in "Giant," a play that officially opened on March 23, 2026, at the Music Box Theatre in New York City. The play focuses on the scandal and antisemitic remarks made by Dahl in 1983, with Lithgow reprising his Olivier Award-winning performance from the play's earlier runs in the UK. Lithgow has been actively promoting "Giant," including an appearance on "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" and a panel discussion at The Library at The Public.

Concurrently, Lithgow made headlines this month by revealing in interviews with The New York Times and Variety that he considered withdrawing from his role as Albus Dumbledore in the new HBO Max "Harry Potter" television series. He cited the backlash over J.K. Rowling's controversial anti-transgender statements as the reason for his hesitation. While expressing his personal disagreement with Rowling's views, Lithgow ultimately decided to remain in the role, emphasizing the "Harry Potter" series' core themes of tolerance and acceptance.

Why It Matters

John Lithgow's current high-profile endeavors bring complex and sensitive social issues to the public conversation. His role in "Giant" reignites discussions about the legacy of controversial figures like Roald Dahl and how society grapples with their problematic views, particularly concerning antisemitism. Meanwhile, his candid revelation about almost quitting the "Harry Potter" series highlights the ongoing ethical dilemma faced by artists who work on projects associated with creators holding contentious personal opinions. This situation prompts audiences and industry insiders to consider the separation of art from the artist and the responsibilities of public figures in addressing intolerance and bigotry.

Geographic Location

• Music Box Theatre, New York, New York County, New York, United States (Broadway opening of "Giant")
• The Library at The Public, New York, New York County, New York, United States (cocktail event and panel discussion for "Giant")
• New York, New York County, New York, United States (location of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" taping and publication of The New York Times interview)
• London, Greater London, United Kingdom (previous acclaimed runs of "Giant" at the Royal Court Theatre and Harold Pinter Theatre)