Duolingo apologised after a German lesson portrayed J.K. Rowling as mean. The platform confirmed it had removed the example immediately.
The exercise asked about Harry Potter books. The official answer criticised Rowling instead of staying neutral and language-focused.
Duolingo admitted the sentence was unsuitable, expressed regret for offence caused, and promised to avoid similar content in the future.
Rowling’s views on trans rights have fuelled controversy for years, provoking criticism from fans, campaigners, and actors from the Harry Potter films.
Daniel Radcliffe said her comments saddened him and reiterated his support for LGBTQ rights.
Wider Fallout and Literary Reactions
Some learners accused Duolingo of politicising education. Producer Gaby Koppel highlighted the issue on social media, criticising the app’s choice of example.
Rowling also reignited conflict with Nicola Sturgeon, mocking excerpts from Sturgeon’s autobiography and posting critical notes publicly.
Sturgeon acknowledged Rowling’s right to oppose her but condemned the inflammatory nature of her remarks.
Meanwhile, the Polari Prize halted its 2025 competition following uproar over the inclusion of author John Boyne.
Boyne defended Rowling repeatedly, declared gender-critical views, and attracted widespread backlash from LGBTQ communities.
