Emma Watson, widely recognized for her role as Hermione in the Harry Potter films, has amassed a remarkable net worth of $85 million. In an interview with British Vogue, Watson shared that by the third or fourth Harry Potter film, her earnings had become significant enough to prompt a serious money discussion with her father when she turned 18. Feeling overwhelmed by her newfound wealth, she took a financial management course to learn how to handle it responsibly.
Despite her substantial fortune, Watson has remained frugal. One of her first significant purchases with her Harry Potter earnings was a laptop and a Toyota Prius. Over time, her car collection has grown to include a 2015 Audi S3 Sportback, a 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and a $300,000 Rolls-Royce Ghost. However, she is not one to splurge excessively on luxury items. Her major indulgence was a vacation to Tuscany for her hardworking father, who had introduced her to the Harry Potter books.
Watson is also known for her philanthropic efforts. She is a passionate advocate for various causes and often donates to charity, including a notable $1.4 million contribution in 2018 to a campaign against sexual assault and harassment. Despite describing herself as a nomad, she splits her time between London, New York, and studying at Oxford. In London, she owns a $3.3 million home and a luxurious holiday home in France. For safety, she spends $150,000 annually on a bodyguard and hired a security team while studying at Brown University.
Upon gaining access to her millions at 18, Watson was shocked by her net worth and took a money management course. Although legally able to access her $10 million, private bankers advised her to channel it into trusts, making it difficult to spend freely. Watson avoids lavish items to maintain normal friendships, admitting in a 2014 GQ interview that she loves beautiful things but doesn't want to alienate her friends, who are mostly university students.
While other celebrities often indulge in designer clothing, Watson is seen wearing cruelty-free cosmetics and sustainable clothing. Despite her love for beauty and representing big brands, she rarely wears makeup. "I have tons of products at home and love makeup, but I don't wear much of it," she says. On the red carpet, she typically borrows designer outfits rather than buying them, explaining, "I don't really buy designer stuff. When I need to dress up, I'm typically lent something which I have to return, like Cinderella."