British actress and activist Emma Watson, best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film series, has been handed a six-month driving ban after being caught speeding. The 34-year-old star admitted to the offence, which occurred earlier this year, and faced legal consequences in a London court.
The incident occurred on January 15, when Watson’s vehicle was clocked travelling at 82 mph (132 km/h) in a 60 mph (97 km/h) zone on the M4 motorway in west London. According to court records, Watson was not present at the hearing held this week, but her legal representative submitted a guilty plea on her behalf. The actress had previously received multiple penalty points on her license for earlier speeding infractions, which ultimately triggered the mandatory six-month suspension.
The court ruled in line with UK driving laws, which impose a ban on motorists accumulating 12 or more penalty points within three years. Watson’s recent violation brought her total to the legal threshold, prompting the court to suspend her license. She will also be required to pay a £900 ($1,160) fine, along with £100 in court costs and a £360 victim surcharge.
Court Issues Warning Despite Star’s Clean Record
Watson’s legal representative told the court that the actress was “deeply remorseful” and acknowledged the risks her actions posed. The lawyer also emphasized that Watson had no prior criminal record and that her recent driving offences did not involve reckless or dangerous behaviour such as intoxication or phone use. However, the magistrate noted that despite her clean character and status as a responsible public figure, the law must apply equally to all citizens.
“In cases of repeated speeding, even by a few miles per hour, we must enforce the law to maintain public safety on our roads,” the magistrate said. “Ms. Watson’s celebrity status does not exempt her from the consequences.”
The court encouraged Watson to reflect on the responsibility she holds as a public figure, particularly one frequently involved in advocacy for social justice, education, and women’s rights. Her punishment aligns with UK road safety policy, which emphasizes consistency and fairness in enforcing speed limits.
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‘Harry Potter’ stars Emma Watson, Zoe Wanamaker banned from driving https://t.co/l4HJYjny9o
— Inquirer (@inquirerdotnet) July 17, 2025
Public Reaction Mixed, Fans Defend the Actress
Following the announcement of her driving ban, social media users expressed mixed reactions. While some criticized Watson for endangering others on the road, many defended her, stating that the penalty seemed harsh for what they viewed as a minor infraction. Fans praised her for taking accountability and not attempting to avoid punishment using her fame.
“Emma Watson accepted responsibility without excuses. That’s rare and admirable,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Others noted the importance of maintaining road safety and hoped the incident would serve as a reminder to all drivers, regardless of status.
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Watson, who has not publicly commented on the ruling, has largely kept a low profile in recent months. Best known for her acting, she is also an outspoken advocate for gender equality and was appointed a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador in 2014. She has also earned praise for her work on sustainable fashion and education access.
Emma Watson will not be able to drive until mid-January 2026. In the meantime, she is expected to continue her public work and appearances, relying on alternative transport or drivers for travel. The court’s ruling marks a rare moment where a celebrity figure faces public accountability for a traffic violation — a case reminding everyone that traffic laws apply to all, regardless of fame.
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