Nicola Coughlan slams J.K. Rowling over UK trans ruling

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Nicola Coughlan, star of the hit series Bridgerton, has launched a fierce attack on J.K. Rowling.

This follows the UK Supreme Court’s controversial ruling that transgender women are not legally recognised as women.

NICOLA COUGHLAN’S STAND AGAINST J.K. ROWLING

The ruling, which has ignited heated debate worldwide, prompted Rowling to publicly celebrate the decision. This was a move that Coughlan has vehemently condemned.

On 16 April 2025, the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom ruled that under the Equality Act 2010, the terms “woman” and “sex” refer strictly to biological sex, not gender identity.

This means transgender women, even with gender recognition certificates, are not legally women for the purposes of equality law, according to Page Six.

J.K. ROWLING CELEBRATES RULING

While the court insisted this does not remove protections for trans people against discrimination, critics warn the ruling could lead to further marginalisation.

J.K. Rowling marked the ruling with a celebratory post on X (formerly Twitter). The author shared a photo of herself holding a glass of wine and smoking a cigar by the sea.

She captioned it, “I love it when a plan comes together. #SupremeCourt #WomensRights.” She then toasted the campaign group For Women Scotland, which brought the case.

NICOLA COUGHLAN BLASTS NEW HARRY POTTER SEASON

Reports suggest Rowling donated around £70,000 (approximately R1.8 million) to the organisation. Nicola Coughlan was quick to respond.

On her Instagram Story, she shared an article from The Cut branding Rowling’s celebration “a new low”.

“Keep your new Harry Potter lads. Wouldn’t touch it with a ten-foot pole.” This was a clear jab at the upcoming HBO Harry Potter series, in which Rowling is heavily involved.

NICOLA COUGHLAN’S CALL TO TRANS ALLIES

In a heartfelt Instagram video, Coughlan expressed her horror at the ruling and the author’s reaction.

“To see an already marginalised community being further attacked — and attacked in law — is really stomach-turning and disgusting,” she said.

“And to see people celebrate it is more stomach-turning and disgusting.”

The Irish actress urged cisgender allies to speak out and show solidarity with trans and non-binary people. “Now is the time to make your voice heard,” she said.

BACKLASH OVER RULING

Coughlan also launched a fundraiser for the UK-based charity Not A Phase, which supports trans adults.

She initially set a target of £10,000 (about R260,000) but quickly raised over £100,000 (roughly R2.6 million), matching donations herself.

The backlash against Rowling’s anti-trans stance has been widespread.

‘HARRY POTTER’ ACTORS WEIGH IN

Other Harry Potter actors, including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, have publicly supported the trans community and distanced themselves from Rowling’s views.

Radcliffe called her comments “really sad” and emphasised the importance of empathy.

For South African audiences, this controversyresonates deeply amid ongoing conversations about gender identity and human rights.

South Africa’s progressive constitution protects LGBTQ+ rights, yet trans people still face discrimination and violence.

TRANS RIGHTS VS WOMENS RIGHTS

Coughlan’s outspoken support highlights the global fight for trans equality and the importance of allyship, especially from influential figures.

As Nicola Coughlan puts it, “If you are a cisgender ally, now is the moment to speak up and let your trans, non-binary friends know you stand with them.

A BATTLE FOR IDENTITY

Continue to fight for their rights.” Her call to action is a rallying cry that transcends borders, urging solidarity in the face of legal and social setbacks.

The clash between Nicola Coughlan and J.K. Rowling over trans rights is a vivid reflection of a global cultural battle over identity, recognition, and respect.

And as the new Harry Potter series looms, the controversy is far from over.