Death threats against JK Rowling are 'appalling', says Archbishop

The Archbishop of Canterbury has spoken out after a death threat was made against JK Rowling.

The Harry Potter author was threatened after tweeting her support for Sir Salman Rushdie, who was attacked in Chautauqua, New York state, on Friday.

Rowling tweeted: "Feeling very sick right now. Let him be ok."

In response to her post, a Twitter user replied, "Don't worry you are next."

Rowling said she is working with the police after the threat. 

"To all sending supportive messages: thank you. Police are involved (were already involved on other threats)," she posted later.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has strongly criticised the death threat against Rowling, saying that it undermines vital freedoms.

"It is appalling that there are threats to JK Rowling after her support for Salman Rushdie," he said.

"Threats and attacks undermine the freedom on which we all rely to be able to comment. Prayer and much sympathy for both."

Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
The Protestant faith is losing people in the UK
The Protestant faith is losing people in the UK

The UK, Sweden and Germany are among the countries with the largest net losses of Protestants, according to a new study into religious switching.

Pro-life campaign launched for Welsh Parliament elections
Pro-life campaign launched for Welsh Parliament elections

Candidates are being asked to make their positions on abortion and assisted suicide clear.

Thousands expected as ‘Jesus March’ returns to London for Pentecost
Thousands expected as ‘Jesus March’ returns to London for Pentecost

Thousands of Christians from across the UK are set to gather in central London this Pentecost weekend for a large-scale public event celebrating the Christian faith.

US churchgoers report stronger faith and renewed commitment five years after Covid pandemic
US churchgoers report stronger faith and renewed commitment five years after Covid pandemic

A major new survey of over 24,000 Christian churchgoers in the US suggests many believe their faith and congregational life have strengthened in the years since the Covid-19 pandemic.