British actress Emma Watson, famed for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film franchise, has been banned from driving for six months after being found guilty of speeding in Oxford, England.
According to the ruling by the High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court, the 35-year-old actress was caught driving at 38 mph in a 30 mph zone on July 31, 2024. The court imposed a $1,400 fine and suspended her driver’s license for six months. Watson was not present at the hearing.
Court documents revealed that Watson already had 9 penalty points on her driving license prior to the incident. The new offense added 3 more points, crossing the 12-point threshold under UK traffic law, which triggered an automatic suspension.
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In a curious twist, the court heard a similar speeding case immediately after Watson’s — involving Zoë Wanamaker, another actress from the Harry Potter series, best known for portraying Madam Hooch, the Quidditch instructor. Wanamaker was also caught speeding in August 2024 and received an identical sentence: a $1,400 fine and a six-month driving ban.
UK media reports noted that both actresses were already near the maximum penalty point limit, and the recent violations confirmed mandatory enforcement of the ban.
Emma Watson, who has kept a low profile in recent years, has largely stepped back from acting and is currently involved in education and women’s rights advocacy. The incident marks a rare return to the public spotlight for the otherwise private star
