Emma Watson Caught Speeding in Audi—A Surprising Turn for the “Perfect Student”

According to British outlet The Sun on July 11 (local time), Emma Watson was caught exceeding the speed limit on Banbury Road in Oxford, UK on July 31, 2024. The incident led to her being charged by post, and she reportedly pleaded guilty in March 2025.
The Sun further reported that Watson is expected to appear in court on July 16, where she may attempt to reduce the severity of the charges by explaining any special circumstances surrounding the incident.
What made the news more controversial is Watson’s previous involvement in environmental causes. The actress was a prominent figure at COP26 and had even written a book on sustainability. Critics are pointing out the irony of her being caught speeding in a £30,000 Audi—a car that doesn’t exactly scream eco-consciousness.
This wasn’t the first time Watson’s Audi got her into trouble. In February 2024, her car was impounded for illegal parking outside a pub in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Born in 1990, Watson rose to fame as a child actress in the Harry Potter franchise, portraying Hermione from 2001 to 2011. She has since built an impressive filmography with roles in The Bling Ring, This Is the End, Noah, Beauty and the Beast and Little Women.
Beyond acting, Watson is also known for her intellect and activism, having graduated from Brown University, one of the top Ivy League schools in the U.S. Her traffic violations, however, present a stark contrast to her “model student” image and have sparked discussions about public figures balancing advocacy with personal actions.