Universal Parks & Resorts has broken its silence on J.K. Rowling's anti-transgender comments.
"Our core values include diversity, inclusion and respect for all our guests, as well as our team members," a spokesperson told The Hollywood Reporter. "Our theme parks are places where people and families of all types are welcome to enjoy their time together. Beyond that, we have no further comment."
In this, Universal Parks & Resorts appears to be distancing itself from Rowling's comments. Universal Parks & Resorts operates a number of theme parks around the world and has Harry Potter-themed lands in Florida, California and Japan. There are also plans for a Harry Potter park to open at Universal Studios Beijing in 2021.
Rowling has a history of causing controversy through her comments on social media and has previously been called out by the LGBTQ community. Now, Universal Parks & Resorts has reiterated that it wants not only its staff, but also its guests, to continue feeling welcome at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Although Universal Parks & Resorts' response doesn't directly name Rowling or call out her views, the stars of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts franchises have been more vocal. Katie Leung, Emma Watson, Daniel Radcliffe and Eddie Redmayne have condemned Rowling's anti-trans commentary. In his essay, Radcliffe pointed to those who have found solace in Rowling's world and the damage her comments could cause them. Even though #IStandWithJK started trending on Twitter, a growing number of fans and famous faces continue to speak out against her.
Some of Rowling's corporate partners have waded into the argument, with Warner Bros. Studios issuing a vague statement regarding diversity. Book publisher Scholastic is still yet to comment.