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User Bets $100 That J.K. Rowling Is A ‘Closet Lesbian’ And Her Response Has Hilarious Reactions
J.K. Rowling speaking at a podium during a human rights event, with red hair and a serious expression.
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User Bets $100 That J.K. Rowling Is A ‘Closet Lesbian’ And Her Response Has Hilarious Reactions

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JK Rowling’s latest X controversy comes in the shape of a man accusing her of being a “closet lesbian,” a claim that inexplicably came as a response to her latest controversy around Emma Watson.

The Harry Potter actress revealed how a large part of her fanbase instantly turned on her after she admitted to still feeling appreciation for Rowling despite their differences. The author, in response, hinted that Watson was merely reaping what she sowed.

Highlights
  • JK Rowling dismissed a user’s claim that she was a “closet lesbian,” firing back with sarcasm.
  • The exchange comes as her feud with Emma Watson reignited following Watson’s recent interview.
  • Rowling accused Watson of being “ignorant of how ignorant she is” in her latest public response.

“It’s quite extraordinary how many people think a crocodile will be so grateful you’ve fed it red meat for years that it’ll let you stroll away unharmed when you decide you want a break,” Rowling wrote.

That’s when a user, Lance Steelback, made a strange remark about her orientation.

RELATED:

    JK Rowling was accused of being a “closet lesbian” after commenting on her ongoing feud with Emma Watson

    J.K. Rowling in a navy blue gown and sheer cape posing on the red carpet at a magical fantasy film premiere event.

    Image credits: Mike Marsland/Getty

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    “Since you’re so incredibly obsessed with this one subject, I’m gonna put my money where my mouth is. $100 says you’re a closet lesbian,” Steelback wrote.

    The remark quickly caught fire online, drawing in both supporters and detractors of the author. Rowling, seemingly fed up with the entire situation, lashed out at both equally.

    First, she took aim at Steelback with, “I am, if you’re the alternative.”

    J.K. Rowling speaking at a podium during a Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights event with a serious expression.

    Image credits: Dia Dipasupil/Getty

    Then, the author leaned into mockery when another user joked that “Lance Steelback” sounded like the name of a “mildly successful” gay adult performer from the 80s.

    “Emphasis on the ‘mildly,’” Rowling replied.

    Screenshot of a Twitter exchange about J.K. Rowling involving a $100 bet claiming she is a closet lesbian and her witty reply.

    Image credits: jk_rowling

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    The exchange took a bizarre turn when a different commenter, one of Rowling’s supporters, stepped in to defend her, only to be insulted.

    “That is a disgraceful comment. Even if you were a Lesbian who would actually care? I don’t mind if people think I am straight for example,” the supporter wrote. “If they are going to challenge you, they should keep it to the facts of the argument.”

    To which Rowling replied with: “Get a life, Austin. Or a sense of humour.”

    The author lashed out at both critics and supporters, wishing to be left alone by both parties

    J.K. Rowling with red hair and red lipstick wearing a black shirt, posing indoors with a neutral expression.

    Image credits: jk_rowling

    The thread further devolved when a detractor weighted in with a sweeping generalization about lesbians.

    “This explains all of homosexual women. Some really had a bad experience with men, others are too prideful/cowardly to trust,” they wrote.

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    “Just when I think I’ve seen the last word in homophobic misogyny, here you come to prove me wrong,” the author replied.

    The controversy with Steelback unfolded against the backdrop of Rowling’s intensifying feud with Emma Watson.

    J.K. Rowling holding a drink and smoking a cigar on a balcony by the ocean during sunset.

    Image credits: jk_rowling

    In a recent interview, Watson expressed that she still felt affection for Rowling despite their clash over transgender rights. 

    “I really don’t believe that by having had that experience, that I can’t and don’t treasure Jo and the person that I had personal experiences with,” Watson said.

    “I will never believe that one negates the other. I just don’t think these things are either or,” she added, noting that she remained open to a conversation.

    Rowling dismissed Watson’s comments, arguing that she had merely reaped what she sowed

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    Alt text: Person carrying rainbow flags during LGB rights march in San Francisco, related to J.K. Rowling and lesbian visibility discussion.

    Image credits: jk_rowling

    Rowling, however, used the comments to deliver her own rebuke. She wrote that Watson was “ignorant of how ignorant she is,” arguing that the actress’ privileged background insulated her from the consequences ordinary women face in the gender debate.

    J.K. Rowling in a black coat with pearl earrings, engaging in conversation with a man wearing glasses and a dark jacket.

    Image credits: Euan Cherry/Getty

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    Rowling also accused Watson of playing both sides. She recalled Watson publicly criticizing her at the 2022 BAFTAs, only to later send her a private handwritten note saying: “I’m so sorry for what you’re going through.”

    “Emma had just publicly poured more petrol on the flames, yet thought a one-line expression of concern would reassure me of her fundamental sympathy and kindness,” Rowling wrote.

    “I’m not owed eternal agreement from any actor who once played a character I created.”

    J.K. Rowling wearing a large blue floral hat and matching outfit, smiling softly in a close-up portrait.

    Image credits: jk_rowling

    Beyond arguing with people online, Rowling is now focused on her main upcoming project: the HBO TV reboot of Harry Potter.

    The project, which Rowling executive produces, is set to be one of the company’s most ambitious yet, spanning a decade and covering every detail from each of Rowling’s books. 

    As Bored Pandapreviously reported, production began in July 2025, with a debut expected for 2027.

    “Smoked.” Netizens celebrated Rowling’s quick rebuttal

    Screenshot of a tweet doubting J.K. Rowling is a lesbian, with humorous reactions to the bet about her sexuality.

    Image credits: MikeJohnso76763

    Tweet reply to J.K. Rowling with the word lol and smoked, showcasing reactions to closet lesbian bet claims.

    Image credits: Truth_onFire

    Tweet reply to J.K. Rowling from user Emerald Apple, humorously commenting on a bet about J.K. Rowling being a closet lesbian.

    Image credits: AI_EmeraldApple

    Tweet from Deborah Farris responding to J.K. Rowling, calling her an icon for all women, with engagement stats shown.

    Image credits: fa57522

    Screenshot of a social media reply questioning J.K. Rowling's identity with humorous and skeptical tone.

    Image credits: riwired

    Screenshot of a tweet humorously discussing J.K. Rowling and reactions to the closet lesbian bet with social media engagement.

    Image credits: FreeTriangleswJ

    Screenshot of a tweet replying to J.K. Rowling, referencing her and sparking humorous reactions online.

    Image credits: TakedownMRAs

    Tweet reply to J.K. Rowling from user discussing lesbian visibility and expressing gratitude for support.

    Image credits: iowntheterf

    Screenshot of a tweet discussing user bets on J.K. Rowling as a closet lesbian and the controversial response reaction.

    Image credits: coleodriscoll

    Screenshot of a Twitter reply discussing J.K. Rowling and reactions to a user betting on her being a closet lesbian.

    Image credits: TheDeathmobile

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    Abel Musa Miño

    Abel Musa Miño

    Writer, Entertainment News Writer

    Read more »

    Born in Santiago, Chile, with a background in communication and international relations, I bring a global perspective to entertainment reporting at Bored Panda. I cover celebrity news, Hollywood events, true crime, and viral stories that resonate across cultures. My reporting has been featured on Google News, connecting international audiences to the latest in entertainment. For me, journalism is about bridging local stories with global conversations, arming readers with the knowledge necessary to make up their own minds. Research is at the core of my work. I believe that well-sourced, factual storytelling is essential to building trust and driving meaningful engagement.

    Read less »
    Abel Musa Miño

    Abel Musa Miño

    Writer, Entertainment News Writer

    Born in Santiago, Chile, with a background in communication and international relations, I bring a global perspective to entertainment reporting at Bored Panda. I cover celebrity news, Hollywood events, true crime, and viral stories that resonate across cultures. My reporting has been featured on Google News, connecting international audiences to the latest in entertainment. For me, journalism is about bridging local stories with global conversations, arming readers with the knowledge necessary to make up their own minds. Research is at the core of my work. I believe that well-sourced, factual storytelling is essential to building trust and driving meaningful engagement.

    What do you think ?
    Nathaniel He/Him Cis-Het
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Who cares? Why does BP keep posting this c**p? Has BP been hired by JKR? JKR is a bitter old woman who seems to think fighting off her descent into irrelevancy means taking a dump on her legacy and her fans.

    Lee Gilliland
    Community Member
    Premium
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Who cares? Couple of bickering women keeping this alive to show the world they're alive. Find something interesting to post.

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    Nathaniel He/Him Cis-Het
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Who cares? Why does BP keep posting this c**p? Has BP been hired by JKR? JKR is a bitter old woman who seems to think fighting off her descent into irrelevancy means taking a dump on her legacy and her fans.

    Lee Gilliland
    Community Member
    Premium
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Who cares? Couple of bickering women keeping this alive to show the world they're alive. Find something interesting to post.

    ADVERTISEMENT
    Load More Comments
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