Eddie Redmayne, like many other A-list actors, has a platform that allows him to speak to millions of people, whether through his performances or even in public appearances and interviews. Yet, don’t expect Redmayne to use that platform to spread a political agenda. It’s not going to happen. In fact, the actor would also like fans to maybe chill out a little when it comes to the negative words being said about one of his ‘Fantastic Beasts’ collaborators, J.K. Rowling.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Redmayne was asked about what type of role his personal feelings and politics might play in his career. This comes as the actor is set to star in one of the more politically-charged films of the year, “The Trial of the Chicago 7,” as well as headline a franchise that has found itself in political hot water due to Rowling, “Fantastic Beasts.” According to the actor, he’s rather apolitical, at least publicly.
“I’d just rather focus my attention on what my job is, which is telling stories,” Redmayne said. “Speaking out can end up doing damage to the things you believe in, rather than helping. What I try to do generally is keep my head down.”
Of course, that isn’t always the case. Back in June, when ‘Harry Potter’ author and ‘Fantastic Beasts’ screenwriter Rowling was coming under fire, yet again, for transphobic comments made on social media, Redmayne spoke out against the writer’s comments and voiced his support for the trans community. As you might suspect, this was welcomed by many fans that were happy to see the star disavow support for Rowling’s controversial statements, which she has not only doubled-down on in recent weeks but actually gone into, what appears to be, full-on troll mode.
But yet, now, it appears that Redmayne is walking back those statements a bit. No, he definitely still supports the trans community, but he also wants to defend Rowling from what he sees are attacks against the woman for her comments. In the interview, he spoke out against the “vitriol” that has been lobbed at Rowling and called the attacks on the writer, “absolutely disgusting.” This prompted him to send Rowling a private note, presumably to show her support during a time when most people have been trying to distance themselves from her.
READ MORE: ‘Harry Potter’ Creator J.K. Rowling Doubles Down On Transphobic Message In A New Essay
Though he does show his support for Rowling, the actor wants to clarify that he understands that the attacks aren’t just aimed at the writer. He believes that trans people are also the subject of horrible abuses.
He added, “Similarly, there continues to be a hideous torrent of abuse towards trans people online and out in the world that is devastating.”
As mentioned, Redmayne is set to begin work on the third ‘Fantastic Beasts’ film, which is co-written by Rowling, soon as the production restarts after the COVID-19 pandemic forced a delay. It’ll be interesting to see how fans react to his seeming “both sides” argument regarding Rowling and how he plans to avoid discussing politics while promoting the new WB film.
