Emma Watson, whose most notable film role is as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter movie series, was handed a UK six-month ban on driving over a speeding offense. The British actress was snapped driving at 38 mph within a 30 mph speed limit in London, which contributed to her current driving sanctions.
Why Is Emma Watson Banned From Driving?
Emma Watson had nine points on her license before this offense, as reported by the BBC. The latest offense put her over the limit, leading to the ban, which was handed down by the court. Besides the suspension, she was also fined $1,396. The matter was heard at High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday and took not more than five minutes, according to reports. Watson did not attend the hearing in person.
The news comes after Watson stepped back from acting to pursue her studies. In September 2024, she began a Master’s degree course in Creative Writing at Oxford University. Speaking with British Vogue later in 2023, Watson spoke about her time out from Hollywood, revealing that she was thankful for the opportunity to get to know herself again and achieve a sense of creative freedom.
“I’m happy I took the time off because it allowed me to discover my own voice and a new sense of freedom,” she explained. Watson also added that letting things be unclear for some time resulted in personal growth and clarity regarding her future.
Although she’s not working on any movies at the moment, Watson did make a couple of rare public outings in recent months. She was seen courtside at an NBA game in February, and in May, she returned to the Cannes Film Festival red carpet for the first time in more than a decade. For the meantime, however, the actress will be avoiding the roads in London at least until her driving ban expires.