Actress Emma Watson’s Speeding Violation Leads to Six-Month Ban

Emma Watson, the Harry Potter actress who famously portrayed Hermione Granger, has been banned from driving for six months after a recent speeding incident added to an already lengthy record. The 35-year-old was clocked driving 38 mph in a 30 mph zone in Oxford on July 31, 2024, while behind the wheel of a blue Audi.

Actress Faces Ban

According to proceedings at High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court, Watson already had nine points on her driving license prior to the offense. As a result, the court issued a six-month driving disqualification and ordered her to pay a total of £1,044. Watson did not appear in court for the brief five-minute hearing. Her lawyer, Mark Haslam, attended on her behalf, telling the court, “She is in a position to pay the fine.” He also confirmed that Watson is currently a student.

Watson has been enrolled in a master’s program in creative writing at the University of Oxford since 2023, a notable shift from her career in acting. Her return to academia follows a long list of accomplishments both on and off screen, including her tenure as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador.

A Household Name

Rising to global fame in 2001 with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Watson appeared in all eight films of the franchise before branching out into other film roles such as Beauty and the Beast, The Bling Ring, and The Perks of Being a Wallflower. In recent years, her focus has shifted more toward activism and education, though her public profile remains strong.

While Watson’s legal troubles made headlines, her fans have largely expressed support for her continued growth outside of Hollywood. The incident, however, underscores that even celebrities must face the consequences of everyday infractions. Representatives for Watson have been approached for comment, though none have been issued at this time.

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