Not being as up on my Harry Potter lore as most others, I totally forgot about the minor flap that arose when J.K. Rowling said that Albus Dumbledore was homosexual. But it all came back to me when Johnny Depp was cast as Gellert Grendelwald in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, as the two enemies shared more than a friendship when they were younger. From Rowling's 2007 comments...
"He lost his moral compass completely when he fell in love and I think subsequently became very mistrustful of his own judgement in those matters so became quite asexual. He led a celibate and a bookish life."
Well now we may be about to learn more about what happened between the two, as Rowling revealed that Dumbledore's sexuality could be a factor in the 'Fantastic Beast' sequels he's set to appear in...
"Well, I’m very comfortable with the question. I would like to say, because this is obviously a five-part story, there’s lots to unpack in that relationship … You will see Dumbledore as a younger man and quite a troubled man. We’ll see him at that formative period of his life. As far as his sexuality is concerned … watch this space."
Dumbledore had been played by the late Michael Gambon and then Richard Harris, but a much younger actor will take on the role now. We know a casting search is underway and it will be very interesting to see who they get, especially since it's likely to be someone of considerable star power just like the rest of the cast. It looks like the relationship between Dumbledore and Grendelwald will play a crucial role going forward into the next four sequels. Or perhaps Dumbledore will have a different love interest since there's nothing to suggest Grendelwald returned his affections.
Rowling has always been an advocate for LGBTQ rights and has said there are homosexual characters in the 'Potter' universe, I just hope there isn't some ignorant backlash over seeing it on screen. The first 'Fantastic Beasts' film opens November 18th. [Variety]
