Is this Emma Watson's next move after Oxford University?

Emma Watson could be making a return to acting after her studies at Oxford University come to an end, it has been suggested.

Growing up in the city and attending both the Dragon School and Headington School, she landed her breakout role in Harry Potter as a child actress.

Starring as one of the central characters, Hermione Granger, Ms Watson went on to play the iconic role for all eight films.

After going on to star in other flicks in the 2010s, she took a temporary step away from the profession in pursuit of higher education following 2019's Little Women.

For many fans, Emma Watson’s pause from Hollywood never felt like a goodbye, but more of a deep breath. She has always been someone who values personal growth as much as professional success, and that combination has shaped her career choices. Rather than chasing roles for the sake of visibility, she chose to invest in herself, which has only heightened the intrigue around her comeback.

In a world where many child stars burn out, Watson’s path has always been measured and intentional. From her UN work advocating for gender equality to her academic focus, she’s carved out a place beyond traditional celebrity culture. That’s part of why the idea of her returning to film now feels particularly exciting — she wouldn’t return unless she had something meaningful to say through her work.

READ MORE: New Hermione Granger actress talks about replacing Oxford's Emma Watson

Emma Watson currently studies at Oxford University.

The 35-year-old opted to study a Master’s degree in creative writing in September 2023 before it was announced in February that she had switched to a DPhil.

Now, in a new piece by Luxus Magazine, writer Pauline Duvieu has discussed what is next for Ms Watson's career after her eventual graduation from Oxford.

Her focus on creative writing offers a clue. Many believe Watson isn’t just preparing to return in front of the camera — she could be gearing up to develop and produce her own projects. It wouldn’t be surprising if she moves toward storytelling roles that empower her voice further, whether through directing, screenwriting, or producing meaningful, character-driven stories.

The magazine, which focuses on lifestyle combining glamour and investigation, suggests that a return to Hollywood is likely, with six years passing so far since the actress' last movie.

"Emma Watson does not seem to have made her final farewell to cinema," writes Ms Duvieu.

"It remains to be seen if the actress will ever return to theatres, and especially in what form."

One thing seems certain: audiences have not forgotten her. Streaming platforms continue to introduce new generations to the Harry Potter films, and social media is filled with ongoing appreciation for Watson’s earlier roles as well as her advocacy work. That enduring connection means her re-entry into acting would arrive with built-in enthusiasm — rare in today’s fast-moving entertainment landscape.

Speaking to Hollywood Authentic recently, Ms Watson described some aspects of the profession as "soul-destroying".

"In some ways, I really won the lottery [with acting], and what happened to me is so unusual," she said.

"But a bigger component than the actual job itself is the promotion and selling of that piece of work, this piece of art."

Her honesty about the pressures of fame is part of what resonates with people. Watson has always been candid about how overwhelming the industry can be, especially for someone who entered it so young. If she comes back, she’s likely to do so on her own terms — with more autonomy, creative control, and emotional clarity than ever before.

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