Pedro Pascal Wades Into Trans Rights Debate, Calls Out JK Rowling After Bold Red Carpet Statement

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Latino super star Pedro Pascal was expected to dominate headlines this year thanks to a slate of high-profile projects set for release in 2025. But the Chilean-born actor surprised many this week by stepping directly into the polarized conversation surrounding trans rights — and publicly clashing with "Harry Potter" author J.K. Rowling.

The unexpected controversy began at the London premiere of Marvel's The Thunderbolts, where Pascal arrived wearing a now-viral white T-shirt emblazoned with the bold message: "Protect the Dolls." The slogan is a direct call to protect transgender women — a cause deeply personal to Pascal, whose younger sister, Chilean actress Lux Pascal, is openly transgender.

The siblings have spoken in the past about their close relationship and Lux's journey as a trans woman.

Pascal's wardrobe choice came just one day after the U.K. Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling declaring that only individuals assigned female at birth can be legally recognized as women in certain contexts. The ruling was met with celebration from Rowling, who took to social media to claim partial credit for the outcome.

"I love it when a plan works out," the author wrote, posting a photo of herself aboard a yacht, cigar in hand. She later revealed she had financially supported legal efforts behind the case. Rowling has long drawn criticism for her views on transgender rights and has publicly clashed with several former Harry Potter stars — including Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson — over the issue.

Her post sparked immediate backlash. Among those to respond was trans activist Tariq Ra'ouf, who reshared Rowling's image while urging a boycott of the Harry Potter franchise, including theme parks in Orlando and Los Angeles.

Pedro Pascal, never one to shy away from advocacy, appeared to echo that sentiment without naming Rowling directly. But his T-shirt — pointed, political, and timed — spoke volumes.

While Pascal has yet to directly address Rowling by name, many on social media interpreted his fashion statement as a public rebuke. The phrase "Protect the Dolls" began trending shortly after the premiere, with fans and activists praising the actor for using his platform to support the trans community in a moment of heightened visibility and tension.

"Awful disgusting SHIT is exactly right. Heinous LOSER behavior," Pascal wrote in reaction to JK Rowling.

The love of Lux and Pedro Pascal

While the actor of series like 'The Last of Us' and 'The Mandalorian', as well as the upcoming 'Fantastic Four' film, among others, has previously declared himself left-wing and spoken out in favor of immigrants and other vulnerable sectors of society, this is the first time he has commented on something directly related to someone.

Pascal is known for his good humor and is considered one of Hollywood's most beloved artists. However, transgender rights are a more personal and family issue. Here he is at the premiere of 'Gladiator 2,' accompanied by his father, Pepe Balmaceda, and his sister, Lux.

Considering he'll continue to release projects this year, Pedro Pascal will have plenty of opportunities to express his position and expand his activism. Questions will undoubtedly arise, and all his fans are eagerly awaiting his answers.