Canadian filmmaker Ally Pankiw made a public statement on Thursday, revealing her decision to decline an offer to direct an upcoming television series based on the popular “Harry Potter” franchise. Pankiw shared a screenshot of a text conversation on her Instagram account, where she adamantly rejected the opportunity, citing her stance against supporting transphobia.

Expressing her firm stance, Pankiw emphasized the ease with which she turned down the offer, stating, “It simply is this easy to say no to funding transphobia!” She clarified that the offer was for a directing role, not acting.

Known for her work on projects such as “Black Mirror,” “Feel Good,” and the film “I Used to be Funny,” Pankiw’s decision to decline the “Harry Potter” series comes amidst ongoing controversy surrounding author J.K. Rowling’s views on transgender issues.

The upcoming HBO Max series, titled “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” is set for release on December 25, 2026, and will stream on Crave in Canada. Rowling’s previous statements on gender and sex have sparked criticism, leading to divisions within the “Harry Potter” community and among those associated with the franchise.

Joining Pankiw in refusing involvement with the series, director Kate Herron also shared her experience of turning down offers to work on the project. Herron, known for her work on “Loki” and other popular series, commended Pankiw’s decision and revealed that she had declined the offer multiple times.

While representatives for Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company of HBO, have not commented on the refusals, the directors’ actions reflect a growing trend of individuals distancing themselves from projects associated with contentious viewpoints.

As the industry continues to navigate these complex issues, Pankiw and Herron’s decisions underscore the importance of aligning with values and principles in the entertainment landscape.