In what will be seen by many as a challenge to J.K. Rowling, who was slammed for questioning the allegations that trans women are identical to biological women, the filmmakers are trying a more diverse line-up for the starring positions.
They are insisting that some of the characters for the new versions – to be aired as a "web series" – cannot be played by white actors, including the starring position of James Potter, father of young wizard Harry.
According to casting notes, that role is just open to an actor who is "Asian, black, African descent, ethnically ambiguous, multiracial, Indigenous peoples, Latino, Hispanic, Middle Eastern, South Asian, Indian, Southeast Asian or Pacific Islander." Producers have not revealed who they want to play Lily Evans, Harry's mother, though they have announced they want a "gender-nonconforming, non-binary, trans female."
WATCH: ESPN HOST- DEMOCRAT STRATEGY IS NOT WORKING
Casting sheets for Sirius Black, originally played by Gary Oldman in the movie adaptations, call for a non-white actor.
All genders can audition for the part. The project's creator, TikTok video producer Megan Mckelli, announced: "We aim to reflect the diversity of the fanbase in its beloved characters, introducing people of colour, queer storylines, and characters of differing faiths."
WATCH: 2004 SNL SKETCH: "DONALD TRUMP’S HOUSE OF WINGS”
Though the producers, who are based in the US, are almost certain to meet a legal battle from Ms. Rowling, who is not thought to have given permission for them to use her characters.
TAXPAYER DOLLARS AT WORK: OUTRAGE OVER UC BERKELEY'S TAYLOR SWIFT MARKETING CLASS
While the filmmakers have written their own script, which does not feature Harry – played by Daniel Radliffe in the original films alongside Emma Watson as Hermione Granger and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley – as the central character, it is based on the books written by Ms. Rowling, who guards her copyright.
Her characters like Remus Lupin, Peter Pettigrew, Marlene McKinnon, and Dorcas Meadowes will feature in the series to be caught in the Pacific Northwest area of America in June and July.
Lupin, explained that producers can be played by all genders, though Pettigrew must be played by "a gender non-conforming, non-binary, trans male."
TRUMP POINTS (MIDDLE) FINGER AT BIDEN AS PRO-HAMAS DEMONSTRATIONS DESTROY THE IVY'S
It is not yet known when the series will be screened, though Ms. Mckelli has hired LA-based casting agent Hannah Schill.
Meanwhile, many people ask why Rowling deserves to get canceled, and of course, it's a good point.
Ms. Rowling, 56, did not respond to requests for comment about the venture.
Discover alternative ideas that will make you think
Engage in mind bending debate
Earn points, rise in rank, have fun
