The Harry Potter Rich List: Eye-Watering Earnings of the Child Stars
It's been over 14 years since Daniel Radcliffe first donned the iconic glasses and lightning scar to portray Harry Potter, but the impact of that role continues to resonate in his bank account. The 35-year-old actor has reportedly amassed nearly £100 million from the franchise that catapulted him to fame, showcasing not only his acting talent but also his astute investment strategies.
Daniel Radcliffe: £96.3 Million
Radcliffe's financial journey began when he was just 12 years old, earning £1 million for his first Harry Potter film. By the time he wrapped up the series in 2011, his total earnings had ballooned to £75 million. Recent accounts reveal that his wealth has increased by an additional £20 million, with a notable £6.6 million boost in the last year alone.
Despite his success in various other acting roles—including a Tony Award-winning performance in the Broadway musical "Merrily We Roll Along"—nothing has compared to the financial windfall from his role as the boy wizard. Radcliffe has publicly acknowledged the complexities of his relationship with J.K. Rowling, the series’ author, especially as their views on social issues diverge. He has expressed that while he owes much of his career to Rowling, he remains committed to his beliefs, particularly regarding transgender rights.
Radcliffe's financial acumen is evidenced by his management of wealth through "Gilmore Jacobs Limited," a company established by his parents to oversee his earnings, investments in property, and theater companies. He enjoys a comfortable lifestyle, owning homes in both West London and New York's West Village, and recently welcomed a son with his long-term partner, actress Erin Darke.
Emma Watson: £67 Million
Following closely behind is Emma Watson, who played the intelligent and resourceful Hermione Granger. At 34, Watson's fortune stands at approximately £67 million, earning her a place at number 39 in the Sunday Times 40 under 40 Rich List. Her earnings from the Harry Potter franchise alone are estimated at £49 million, with a significant portion coming from the final two films, "The Deathly Hallows."
Watson's career has flourished beyond Hogwarts; she earned £17 million for her starring role in Disney’s "Beauty and the Beast" and around £3 million for her part in the 2019 adaptation of "Little Women." Known for her progressive views, Watson has become a sought-after ambassador for various brands, including Burberry and Lancome, and even co-founded a gin distillery in Dorset.
Her commitment to social issues and her label of being 'self-partnered' rather than single have resonated with younger audiences. As the youngest board member of Kering, which owns luxury brands like Gucci, Watson continues to leverage her fame into lucrative business ventures.
Rupert Grint: £40 Million
Rupert Grint, who portrayed Ron Weasley, has seen his fortune grow to £40 million. Initially earning around £21 million from his role, Grint has diversified his career with notable performances in Apple TV's "Servant" and Netflix's "Guillermo del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities." He has described his earnings from Harry Potter as "ridiculous" and has openly criticized Rowling’s statements on women's rights, likening her to an aunt with whom he may not always agree.
Grint is also a family man, sharing a daughter, Wednesday, with long-time partner Georgia Groome. Together, they manage investments and properties, including a substantial housing portfolio valued at £24 million.
Tom Felton: £16 Million
Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy, has accumulated a fortune of £16 million. Starting his acting career at the age of six, Felton earned approximately £14 million from his role as the Slytherin antagonist. However, he has publicly admitted to squandering much of his early earnings on extravagant purchases, leading to significant debt.
Despite his rocky financial beginnings, Felton has rebuilt his wealth through various film and television roles, including "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" and a West End debut in "2:22 A Ghost Story." In 2022, his memoir, "Beyond the Wand," detailing his struggles with addiction and recovery, became a New York Times bestseller.
Felton emphasizes that while fame and wealth are often seen as desirable, they cannot replace the childhood experiences he lost during his rise to stardom.
Robert Pattinson: £80 Million
Robert Pattinson, who played Cedric Diggory in "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," has seen his fortune soar to £80 million. Although his character's early demise in the series meant he was unable to reprise the role, Pattinson capitalized on his Harry Potter fame to pursue a successful career in independent films and blockbusters alike.
His role as Edward Cullen in the "Twilight" series further bolstered his wealth, bringing in around £10 million from subsequent sequels. Pattinson's portrayal of Batman in the 2022 superhero film marked a significant comeback, with a sequel planned for 2027.
He attributes much of his success to his time in the Harry Potter franchise, stating, "I wouldn’t be acting if it wasn’t for that."
Matthew Lewis: £8 Million
Matthew Lewis, known for his role as Neville Longbottom, has built a respectable fortune of £8 million. Lewis has enjoyed a successful career post-Potter, starring alongside Emilia Clarke in "Me Before You" and appearing in popular television series like "Happy Valley" and "All Creatures Great and Small."
Interestingly, his marriage to Angela Jones, whom he met during a Harry Potter event, is a delightful twist of fate attributed to Rowling's universe.
Katie Leung: £4 Million
Katie Leung, who portrayed Cho Chang, has amassed approximately £4 million since her debut in "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." The Scottish-Chinese actress has continued her career with roles alongside Jackie Chan and in various television dramas, including the BBC thriller "Nightsleeper."
Katie's journey illustrates how a single role can launch an acting career, despite coming from a non-acting background.
Evanna Lynch: £3 Million
Evanna Lynch, who played the whimsical Luna Lovegood, has earned around £3 million. Her portrayal of Luna not only established her career but also helped her navigate personal struggles, including battles with anorexia. Lynch has spoken candidly about how Rowling's letters and support played a crucial role in her recovery.
While she has been involved in various acting projects, Lynch's opinions on social issues, particularly concerning Rowling's comments on transgender rights, have sparked discussions among fans and co-stars alike.
Conclusion
The "Harry Potter" franchise has not only created a cultural phenomenon but has also significantly enriched the lives of its young stars. As they navigate their careers and personal beliefs, the financial success stemming from their roles serves as a testament to the lasting impact of J.K. Rowling's magical world. Each actor's journey reflects unique challenges and triumphs, highlighting the complexities of fame and fortune in the entertainment industry.
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