Language-learning app Duolingo apologised after a German task described J.K. Rowling as mean. The company confirmed the lesson has been removed.
The exercise asked learners if they liked Harry Potter books. The accepted response judged Rowling personally rather than focusing on grammar practice.
Duolingo admitted the example was inappropriate, apologised for offence caused, and promised to review future content more carefully.
Rowling remains highly controversial due to her views on transgender issues, which activists, readers, and celebrities have strongly condemned.
Actor Daniel Radcliffe said he felt upset by Rowling’s remarks and emphasised his commitment to LGBTQ equality.
Ongoing Disputes in Literature and Politics
Some learners criticised Duolingo for including political views in lessons. Producer Gaby Koppel posted her frustration about the app on social media.
Rowling also clashed with Nicola Sturgeon, sharing annotated excerpts of Sturgeon’s autobiography online and mocking her positions.
Sturgeon insisted Rowling could hold her opinion but accused her of using unnecessarily incendiary language.
Meanwhile, the Polari Prize paused its 2025 competition after outrage over novelist John Boyne’s inclusion on the longlist.
Boyne supported Rowling publicly, embraced gender-critical stances, and faced heavy backlash from LGBTQ communities and writers.
