Maxine Peake compares JK Rowling to Mary Whitehouse and Nigel Farage

Actress Maxine Peake launched a critique of JK Rowling, whose anti-trans shift has been well-documented, during an appearance on BBC Radio 4’s Front Row, accusing her of lacking understanding on issues surrounding trans and women's rights. The remarks came during a discussion about Peake’s current role portraying morality campaigner Mary Whitehouse in The Last Stand of Mrs Mary Whitehouse at Nottingham Playhouse.

Peake, 51, drew a direct comparison between Rowling and Whitehouse, suggesting both are emblematic of public figures who speak out on complex social issues without sufficient insight. “You can’t not look at very public figures, celebrities, speaking out on issues, like Mary, who have no understanding,” Peake said. “I will say it: JK Rowling.”

She went further, likening Rowling to Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, describing both as “figureheads” with “dangerous ideology” that appeals to a disillusioned public. “People are a little lost and they are able to draw people in with their really dangerous ideology, I believe,” Peake added.

The interview comes amid heightened tensions in the UK’s ongoing debate over gender identity and free speech. Rowling, 60, has been a vocal supporter of the Supreme Court’s recent ruling that the term “woman” in the Equality Act refers to biological women. Her stance has drawn both praise and fierce criticism.

Peake’s comments also follow Rowling’s recent defence of Father Ted creator Graham Linehan, who was arrested at Heathrow Airport over alleged incitement related to anti-trans tweets. Rowling described the arrest as “totalitarianism” and “utterly deplorable”.

Peake’s play runs at Nottingham Playhouse until 27 September.