Emma Watson makes rare appearance after stepping back from Hollywood

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 22 Oct, 13:03 · Archive

Harry Potter star Emma Watson has appeared in Los Angeles after quitting mainstream Hollywood to pursue further education.

Emma Watson, who rose to fame as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films, has made a rare public appearance in Los Angeles at an after-party for the 2026 Academy Museum Gala at Chateau Marmont. She attended in a lace gown with a thigh-high split and fringed mini skirt, paired with a shawl and platform heels.

The 36-year-old has largely remained away from mainstream Hollywood since appearing in Little Women in 2019. She joined Oxford University in 2023 to pursue a master's in creative writing before switching to study for a DPhil in literature, focusing on her academic pursuits instead of acting.

Watson previously explained her decision to step away from the industry in an interview with Hollywood Authentic. She described the balance between acting and film promotion as problematic, saying: 'I do not miss selling things. I found that to be quite soul-destroying.' She added that she was 'maybe the happiest and healthiest I've ever been' since stepping back from the entertainment industry.

How it is being reported

• Emma Watson resurfaces in US after quitting 'soul-destroying' HollywoodOxford University student and Harry Potter star Emma Watson has resurfaced in the US after quitting "soul-destroying" Hollywood.Oxfordshire Guardian · 22 Oct, 12:30
• Emma Watson resurfaces in US after quitting 'soul-destroying' HollywoodOxford University student and Harry Potter star Emma Watson has resurfaced in the US after quitting "soul-destroying" Hollywood.Oxford Mail · 22 Oct, 12:30

In this story: Emma Watson · Oxford University · Oxford · Los Angeles · Harry Potter

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