Emma Watson Celebrates 35: A Look at Her Iconic Career

PARIS, France — Emma Watson, the British actress best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film series, celebrates her 35th birthday today, April 15, 2025. Born on this day in 1990, Watson has made a significant impact in both the film industry and women’s advocacy.

Watson was born to British parents in Paris, but her family moved to England after her parents’ divorce. She developed an interest in acting at a young age, participating in school plays while also taking acting and singing lessons. In 1999, she auditioned for the role of Hermione Granger in the first Harry Potter movie, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, which premiered in 2001. Her portrayal of the intelligent and dedicated character won her worldwide acclaim and established her as a prominent young actress.

Over the next decade, Watson reprised her role in all eight Harry Potter films, leading to a successful career in Hollywood. After the franchise concluded in 2011, Watson sought to diversify her acting portfolio. She starred in films such as The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012), The Bling Ring (2013), and the live-action adaptation of Beauty and the Beast (2017), which grossed over $1.26 billion worldwide. In 2019, Watson portrayed Jo March in the critically acclaimed adaptation of Little Women, showcasing her range as an actress.

In addition to her film career, Watson has been a vocal advocate for gender equality and women’s rights. In 2014, she was appointed a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and launched the HeForShe campaign, aiming to involve men in the movement for gender equality. Watson has continually highlighted the importance of women’s representation in various sectors, including media and leadership positions.

<p"Watson also maintained her academic pursuits, graduating from Brown University in 2014 with a degree in English literature. Balancing her studies and acting career, she emphasized the importance of education and lifelong learning. As she continues to navigate her multifaceted career, Watson remains an influential figure, inspiring future generations of young women.

Today, fans celebrate Emma Watson’s contributions to film and activism as she embraces her 35th year, demonstrating that her journey is far from over.