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Known as Hermione, the brightest witch of her age, Emma Watson became an overnight sensation whenHarry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stonewas released in 2001. But what most don’t know is that her journey to stardom was almost derailed by the very thing that made her famous.

Emma Watson as Hermione Granger in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

As a child actor, Watson was thrust into the spotlight at just nine years old. While theHarry Pottermovies catapulted her to global fame, it also took a toll on her mental health. The actress almost quit the industry while filming for the last few movies. It took a great deal of strength and her passion for the project for her to continue with it, despite feeling immensely burnt out.

The price of fame: growing up in the spotlight

Emma Watson‘s journey in the entertainment industry began when she was just nine years old. She landed the role ofHermione Grangerin theHarry Potterfranchise. Overnight, she became a household name, known and beloved by millions worldwide.

But as she grew older, the pressures of fame began to take their toll. Constant scrutiny, the lack of privacy, and the overwhelming expectations from fans and the media made her question her passion for acting. During the last few years of the series, Watson felt burnt out and disconnected from the craft she once loved.

“I wanted to wear a sports bra until I was 22”: Emma Watson is Thankful She Didn’t Commit the Same Mistake in Harry Potter as Elizabeth Taylor

“I wanted to wear a sports bra until I was 22”: Emma Watson is Thankful She Didn’t Commit the Same Mistake in Harry Potter as Elizabeth Taylor

I’d walk down the red carpet and go into the bathroom, I had on so much makeup and these big, fluffy, full-on dresses.

I’d put my hands on the sink and look at myself in the mirror and say, ‘Who is this?’ I didn’t connect with the person who was looking back at me, and that was a very unsettling feeling.

Emma Watson as Ila in Noah.

TheLittle Womenactressspoke to Vanity Fairabout her dilemma, the exhaustion almost made her give up the role she so desired. She started seeking a sense of normalcy and anonymity.

“It got really obvious as the movies went on”: The Harry Potter Movies are Guilty of a Terrible Crime Against Emma Watson’s Hermione That Was So Obvious It Should’ve Been Caught Sooner

I was finding this fame thing was getting to a point of no return, I sensed if this was something I was ever going to step away from it was now or never.

Almost as she was going to quit it all, something inside her sparked a desire to continue exploring her creativity. After theHarry Potterseries concluded, she took a break and attended Brown University. A few years away from the industry made Watson feel rejuvenated, but her fears persisted.

“It got really obvious as the movies went on”: The Harry Potter Movies are Guilty of a Terrible Crime Against Emma Watson’s Hermione That Was So Obvious It Should’ve Been Caught Sooner

Finding her footing: Post-Potter projects

On returning to acting, Watson was determined to take on roles that challenged her and allowed her to grow as an artist. She appeared in films likeThe Perks of Being a Wallflower,Noah,andBeauty and the Beast,showcasing her range.

“She kind of told me to get a grip”: Emma Watson is Forever Indebted to 1 Harry Potter Co-Star for Sage Advice That Every Actor Should Follow Including Johnny Depp

But her desire for privacy was still the same, the actress often thought she didn’t suit the acting profession because of her serious personality. But as the years passed, she realized she needed to pick her battles and find the courage to prioritize her safety.

I’ve often thought, I’m so wrong for this job because I’m too serious; I’m a pain in the ass; I’m difficult; I don’t fit,

Emma Watson as Angela Gray in Regression.

But as I’ve got older, I’ve realized, No! Taking on those battles, the smaller ones and the bigger ones, is who I am.

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The Bling Ringactress has also been a vocal advocate for women’s rights and gender equality, using her platform to raise awareness. In Hollywood, Watson is an icon for her talent, intelligence, and compassion. Fans hope she keeps pushing boundaries and exploring exciting projects.

Shruti Pathak

Articles Published :286

An entertainment writer with a passion for storytelling that transcends genres, Shruti Pathak is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in English. She is also a devoted poetry enthusiast, exploring the beauty of language and emotion through verse. Obsessed with the show Friends, a self-proclaimed swiftie, and inspired by classical literature these are just some characteristics that describe the novice writer. Newly joining FandomWire as an intern writer, she hopes to share her thoughts while sharpening her writing skills on various entertainment topics.

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Emma WatsonHarry PotterHermione Granger