Embattled author J.K. Rowling has given the first few episodes of HBO's upcoming Harry Potter series her seal of approval, also sharing that she "worked closely" with the series' writers. "I read the first two episodes of the forthcoming HBO Harry Potter series and they are SO,

J.K. Rowling’s confirmation that she is working “closely” with the writers reinforces Warner Bros.’ original messaging that she would be directly involved in preserving the tone and structure of the book series. The new show is expected to span at least seven seasons, with each book adapted across its own full season.

The controversy around J.K. Rowling's involvement in HBO's upcoming Harry Potter TV series is, honestly, a constant at this point. It's arguably overshadowed anything else about the series. This is mostly because the author has spent the majority of her post-Harry Potter career spending time — and money — essentially pushing back against the mere notion of trans rights.