Twitch and YouTube creators Girlfriend Reviews have posted a response video after they were allegedly “bullied” during a livestream of Hogwarts Legacy, saying that those who have called for a boycott of the game are “valid,” but also stating that it is their “job to appraise video games while providing commentary on any controversies surrounding them.”
Girlfriend Reviews criticize J.K. Rowling after Hogwarts Legacy controversy
Girlfriend Reviews’ co-creators Shelby and Matt were the subject of many news reports this month, after a clip of Shelby allegedly crying during a Hogwarts Legacy livestream went viral.
The clip appeared to show Shelby leaving the stream as a result of comments being made by viewers suggesting that the duo were transphobic, after many called for a boycott of Hogwarts Legacy due to Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling’s comments on the trans community. Many used this clip to advocate against the boycott, providing it as an example of the movement against the game having gone too far.
However, Shelby has spoken out against these comments, saying that those who chose to boycott Hogwarts Legacy were valid in doing so — but also pointing out Girlfriend Reviews’ reasons for streaming the game.
Shelby, who is Jewish, stated that Girlfriend Reviews streamed the game in order to investigate its allegedly anti-Semitic themes. Much like the book and movie series, the game has also come under fire for its portrayal of goblins, with many believing them to be Jewish caricatures. Shelby echoes these sentiments, saying that while she believes “J.K. Rowling is transphobic,” she should also be able to stream the game without facing harassment.
Watch the video below:
