Emma Watson, once a household name thanks to her iconic role as Hermione Granger, has been absent from the big screen for several years. While fans have been curious about her hiatus, the 33-year-old actress recently opened up about the reasons behind it.

Feeling Caged by the Industry

In an interview with the Financial Times, Watson revealed she wasn’t entirely happy with the trajectory of her acting career. She described feeling “a bit caged” by the promotional obligations that came with big-budget films.

Loss of Control and Voice

Specifically, Watson expressed frustration with having to constantly “sell” projects she didn’t have a creative say in. She disliked the pressure of being the public face for films while lacking control over the creative process.

Yearning for Authenticity

This disconnect between her personal values and the promotional aspects of acting led her to crave more authentic involvement. She desired projects where she could take ownership and avoid feeling like a “spokesperson” forced to answer for decisions she wasn’t part of.

From Film to Fragrance

Currently, Watson’s focus has shifted towards her own business ventures, including her wine-inspired gin brand, Renais, launched with her brother. However, this doesn’t signify a complete departure from film.

A Foray into Directing

Last year, Watson not only starred in a short film promoting a Prada fragrance, but she also took the reins as director, writer, and narrator. This project marked a significant step for her, and she hinted at potentially directing a music video for a well-known artist.

The Future of Acting

While fans of her on-screen presence can breathe a sigh of relief, Watson assures them she’ll return to acting eventually. However, she emphasizes the importance of finding projects that align with her creative vision and avoid the pressures she previously faced.

Finding the “Right Thing”

“I’m happy to sit and wait for the next right thing,” she stated. “It’s finding a way to do it where I don’t have to fracture myself into different faces and people. And I just don’t want to switch into robot mode anymore.”

Watson’s decision to prioritize creative control and personal fulfillment showcases the complexities of navigating a high-profile acting career. While fans eagerly await her return to the big screen, they can appreciate her journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling path.