Warning: This article contains discussion of discrimination against the trans community which some readers may find distressing.

Emma Watson recently participated in her first podcast and her first extensive conversation in over five years, joining Jay Shetty in a newly released video from yesterday (24 September).

In this comprehensive discussion, the 35-year-old actress, known for her role as Hermione Granger in the cherished Harry Potter film series, which was adapted from the books by JK Rowling, shared why she could 'never cancel' Rowling after the author told her to 'save her apologies'.

Rowling, 60, has a history of making anti-transgender remarks and supporting others with similar transphobic views, positions that Watson has publicly opposed.

Watson has now spoken about her current relationship with Rowling, explaining: "I really don't believe that having had that experience and holding the love and support and views that I have, means that I can't and don't treasure Jo and the person with whom I had personal experiences.

Emma Watson has opened up about the state of her relationship with JK Rowling in a brand-new podcast interview (Jon Furniss / Contributor / Getty Images)

"I will never believe that one negates the other and that my experience with that person is something I don't get to keep and cherish. Like, I just don't think these things are either-or."

The activist continued: "It is my deepest wish that people who disagree with my opinion will still love me, and I hope I can continue to love those with whom I may not share the same views.

"I guess where I've landed is that it's not so much what we say or believe, but how we express it. I see a world now where we seem to allow the discarding of people, as if they are disposable. I will always think that's wrong."

Watson revealed her 'deepest wish' during the exclusive podcast (The Jay Shetty Podcast)

Emphasizing her belief that 'no one is disposable', Watson stated: "And everyone, as far as possible, whatever the conversation is, should and can be treated with, at the very least, dignity and respect."

Reflecting on the aspect that 'most upsets' her about the situation, the English actress candidly revealed that 'a conversation was never made possible'.

When the podcast host inquired if Watson is 'open for that dialogue' with Rowling, she affirmed, though she mentioned she does not 'want to say anything that continues to weaponize a really toxic debate and conversation, which is why I don't comment or continue to comment'.

Rowling has a long history of making anti-transgender comments, as well as supporting others with transphobic views (Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

Watson also mentioned Rowling's 'kindness, words of encouragement, and steadfastness' towards her in the past, adding that she was given an opportunity that 'barely exists in the history of English literature' to portray a character like Harry Potter's Hermione through Rowling's series.

"There is simply no scenario in which I could ever cancel her or that out for anything. It has to remain true — it is true," she said.

The humanitarian, who serves as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, concluded: "I can love her, know she loved me, be grateful to her, know the truths in what she said, and still acknowledge there is this whole other aspect.

"My role feels like it's to hold all of it, but the larger point is that what she's accomplished will never be taken away from me."

If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the LGBT Foundation on 0345 3 30 30 30, 10am–6pm Monday to Friday, or email helpline@lgbt.foundation