Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan is taking a firm stand for trans rights, speaking out after J.K. Rowling publicly celebrated a U.K. Supreme Court ruling that excluded trans women from the legal definition of a woman in a specific legal context.
The ruling, which has sparked heated debate across the U.K. and beyond, centered around the interpretation of sex in the 2010 Equality Act. Rowling applauded the decision on social media, calling it a “victory for women’s rights” — but not everyone agreed.
Coughlan, known for her outspoken activism as well as her acting, was quick to respond. She shared her disappointment in Rowling’s remarks and used her platform to express solidarity with the trans community.
“Trans women are women. Trans rights are human rights,” Coughlan posted. “It’s heartbreaking to see such powerful voices use their platforms to celebrate rulings that hurt an already vulnerable community.”
The Irish actress, who has become a fan favorite for her wit and sincerity both on-screen and online, urged her followers to support trans charities and to educate themselves on the issues facing trans people in the U.K. and around the world.
Her comments have been met with widespread support from fans, fellow actors, and LGBTQ+ advocates, who praised her for taking a stand in an increasingly polarized public discourse.
While Coughlan did not directly name Rowling in her initial posts, she later clarified that her statements were a direct response to the author’s reaction to the court ruling.
The clash reflects a growing divide in the U.K. entertainment world over trans rights, with many high-profile figures now speaking out — either in defense of or opposition to recent political and legal decisions.
For Nicola Coughlan, however, the message is simple: “No one’s existence should be up for debate.”