Harry Potter films turns 25 ahead of new TV series' release

On November 4, 2001, London's Leicester Square transformed into a magical realm as the world premiere of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone took place. Thousands of fans, some dressed in wizard attire, gathered to see celebrities. Daniel Radcliffe, who portrayed Harry Potter, was just 12 years old and amazed by the event. The BBC quoted him saying, "It is so cool. I have never heard my name shouted so much in an hour."

The first Harry Potter book was published in June 1997 by Bloomsbury, with an initial print run of 500 hardcover copies and 5,000 paperback copies. Today, first editions are highly sought-after collectors' items, with a hardcover copy selling for $400,000 at auction. The book is the best-selling novel of all time, with an estimated 120 million-plus copies sold worldwide.

J.K. Rowling's public image was once defined by her rise from a single mother on welfare to a billionaire. However, recent controversy over her views on gender and transgender identity has overshadowed her success. In an essay on her website, she reiterated her opposition to the current strain of trans activism, arguing that allowing trans women into single-sex spaces poses a risk. This stance has led to criticism of her as transphobic, while others see it as a defense of women's rights and safety.

The Harry Potter film cast is divided on the issue, with main stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint supporting transgender people, while Ralph Fiennes and Helena Bonham Carter defend Rowling's right to express her views. Warner Bros., which holds the film rights, is adapting the books into an HBO series, premiering on December 25.

The eight-episode first season adapts the first book, giving character development and subplots more room than the original films. HBO has distanced itself from Rowling's views on gender identity.