Fans have suggested actor Emma Watson appeared to take a dig at author JK Rowling at last night's Bafta ceremony. 

Ms Rowling has become a controversial figure over her comments on gender identity.

First the host Pitch Perfect actor Rebel Wilson – who has lost a large amount of weight – addressed the fact that she is “looking different” and that she has had a “transformation”, quipping: “I hope JK Rowling still approves.”

Later she introduced the Harry Potter star, saying: “Here to present the next award is Emma Watson. She calls herself a feminist, but we all know she’s a witch.”

Ms Watson then emphasised: “I’m here for all the witches!”

One viewer posted on Twitter: “Emma Watson destroying JK.”

Another posted: “Live for Emma Watson throwing subtle shade at JK Rowling at the #BAFTAs #LGBWithTheT #JKDoesntSpeakForMe."

Ms Rowling's critics also include Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint.

Ms Watson attended the Dragon School and Headington School and trained in acting at the Oxford branch of Stagecoach Theatre Arts.

READ MORE: Oxford MP in row with JK Rowling over definition of a woman

She rose to stardom as a child after landing her first professional acting role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series. 

Ms Rowling has repeatedly rejected the idea that she is “transphobic” and has said that she “knows and loves” trans people.

Oxford actor Florence Pugh and Tom Hiddleston, who attended the Dragon School, also presented.