JK Rowling Returns to Forbes Billionaire List Despite Controversies

JK Rowling is back on the list of dollar billionaires. The "Harry Potter" author's latest four years of controversial statements on trans issues have not stopped her economic success, according to Forbes.

» Published: Sat 31 May 2025 07:37 CEST

JK Rowling Returns to Forbes Billionaire List Despite Controversies
Photo: Christophe Ena/AP/TT

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JK Rowling had a spot on Forbes' list of dollar billionaires between 2004 and 2011 when the "Harry Potter" fever was at its peak. In 2012, Rowling spent $160 million – approximately 1.6 billion kronor – on philanthropic contributions and disappeared from the list. Since then, she has rebuilt her fortune with books, films, TV series, theater, video games, merchandise, and amusement parks from the "Potter" universe.

In 2020, Rowling got involved in the trans issue and has landed in several public conflicts, including with actors Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint from the first "Harry Potter" films.

The disputes have not stopped the cash flow, however. Rowling has earned 800 million kronor per year since 2020 and is estimated to earn an additional 193 million Swedish kronor per year for the upcoming "Potter" series on HBO Max. It is estimated to premiere in 2026 and is planned to last for ten years.

According to Forbes, Rowling's current assets are estimated to be approximately 11.5 billion Swedish kronor.

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By TTEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for local and international readers

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