Nicola Coughlan, known for her role in Bridgerton, recently drew widespread attention for publicly criticizing author J.K. Rowling. As Rowling celebrated a UK Supreme Court ruling on the legal definition of women, Coughlan’s sharp response sparked renewed debate across social media. Now, many are asking why Coughlan took such a pointed stance.
Here’s what we know about Nicola Coughlan’s remarks and what led to them.
Nicola Coughlan calls out J.K. Rowling amid Supreme Court hearing
Nicola Coughlan criticized J.K. Rowling following the author’s public celebration of the UK Supreme Court ruling that legally defines women based on biological sex.
Recently, Coughlan posted an Instagram Story linking to an article titled “This is a new low for JK Rowling” and wrote, “Keep your new Harry Potter lads. Wouldn’t touch it with a ten foot pole,” referring to HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series (via The Telegraph.)
Rowling celebrated the April 16 ruling by posting a photo on X (formerly Twitter) holding a drink and cigar, captioned, “I love it when a plan comes together. #SupremeCourt #WomensRights.”
Coughlan had described the ruling as “really stomach-churning and disgusting,” adding, “to see an already marginalized community being further attacked and attacked in law is really stomach-churning.”
Coughlan’s criticism came as she raised over £100,000 ($132,000) for the UK-based trans charity Not A Phase. She also posted a video stating, “If you are a cisgender person who is an ally of a trans person, I think now is the time to just speak up and make your voice heard.” She pledged to match donations up to £10,000 ($13,200) and captioned her post: “Allies of the Trans and Non Binary Community time to come together. F— the Supreme Court, f— the TERFs let’s raise some money.”
Rowling has made widely criticized statements on transgender rights since 2020. In response, several Harry Potter cast members expressed support for the trans community. Daniel Radcliffe wrote, “Transgender women are women” (via The Atlantic). Emma Watson stated, “Trans people are who they say they are.” Rupert Grint added, “I firmly stand with the trans community” (via The Times.)
Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on ComingSoon.net.
