Pedro Pascal is no stranger to speaking his mind, especially when it comes to standing up for the LGBTQ+ community.
The “Last of Us” actor, 50, who has long been vocal about his support for trans rights, recently made headlines once again after responding to a controversial moment involving famed “Harry Potter” author JK Rowling.
On social media, an emotional video by activist Tariq Ra’ouf began circulating, urging the public to boycott anything related to Rowling’s creations.
Ra’ouf called out the author’s reaction to a recent Supreme Court decision defining “woman” and “s*x” in biological terms under the UK Equality Act. Many activists saw the ruling as a major setback for trans rights.
In the video, Ra’ouf passionately said,
“It has become our mission as the general public to make sure that every single thing that’s Harry Potter related fails because that awful disgusting shit, that has consequences.”
While the video itself stirred plenty of debate, it was Pedro Pascal’s direct comment that truly set social media ablaze.
The actor not only liked the video but chimed in by calling Rowling’s behaviour “Awful disgusting SHIT” and labeling it “Heinous LOSER behavior,” solidifying his stance without any ambiguity.
The controversy stemmed from Rowling’s celebratory post after the Supreme Court’s decision. The author shared a photo of herself on a superyacht, casually smoking a cigar, alongside the caption:
“I love it when a plan comes together.”
Later, Rowling defended her public celebration by stating,
“It took three extraordinary, tenacious Scottish women with an army behind them to get this case heard by the Supreme Court and, in winning, they have protected the rights of women and girls across the UK.”
She added that “Trans people have lost zero rights today,” but many critics argue otherwise.
The backlash against Rowling has been mounting, and Pascal’s comments reflect a broader movement among celebrities and fans alike.
Stars such as Nicola Coughlan and Sean Biggerstaff have also expressed disappointment over the ruling and Rowling’s reaction.
Pascal’s personal connection to the trans community runs deep. His younger sister, Lux Pascal, came out as transgender in 2021, and the actor has since become an even more prominent ally.
He often speaks openly about his love and support for Lux, even appearing with her at public events and red carpets.
Earlier this year, Pascal shared a quote on Instagram that read:
“A world without trans people has never existed and never will.”
Facing criticism from some followers, Pascal fired back by saying,
“I cannot think of anything more vile and small and pathetic than terrorizing the smallest, most vulnerable community of people who want nothing from you, except the right to exist.”
At a recent London premiere, Pascal further demonstrated his stance by wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with “Protect the Dolls,” a nod to a pro-trans campaign created by American designer Conner Ives.
Meanwhile, tension continues to simmer around the upcoming HBO Harry Potter series, where some of the newly cast actors including John Lithgow and Janet McTeer have strong ties to LGBTQ+ advocacy through their past roles.
While JK Rowling remains unapologetic, the voices challenging her narrative are growing louder.
Pedro Pascal’s fierce reaction serves as yet another reminder that the debate around trans rights is far from over, and Hollywood’s biggest stars are no longer staying silent.
Featured Image Credit: (Rodin Eckenroth / Getty)(Samir Hussein/WireImage)(WireImage)
