Rupert Grint explains why he avoids watching Harry Potter movies, offering insight into why the actor behind Ron Weasley has kept his distance from the films that made him famous. Speaking with candor, he revealed only watching the earliest movies at their premieres and hinted at how becoming a father might change his perspective in the future.
Why Rupert Grint Rarely Revisits the Wizarding World
Despite playing Ron Weasley in every Harry Potter film, Grint admitted to watching only the first three films—and those viewings happened at the premieres. Instead of indulging in the magic he helped create, Grint has chosen not to revisit the world of Hogwarts since, a decision that often surprises fans who have grown up cherishing each movie and Ron’s unforgettable moments.
“I’ve probably seen the first three at the premieres, but after that I stopped watching them,”
—Rupert Grint, Actor
Facing Fame and Self-Criticism
Since the final movie, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, concluded the saga over a decade ago, the phenomenon has only grown: sequels, spin-offs like Fantastic Beasts, stage plays, and video games keep the world alive. Yet, Grint maintains his distance, not out of disrespect, but as a way of coping with the intensity that comes from being part of such a massive franchise. For him, the pressure and critical self-reflection that come with watching his own performances outweigh the nostalgia or pride fans might expect.
Like many actors, seeing his childhood self on screen is more awkward than enjoyable. The urge to fix small details is overwhelming, but time locks those moments in place, leading to a cycle of self-critique that ultimately saps any sense of joy from the experience.
Fatherhood and a Potential Change of Heart
Though Grint has so far avoided complete rewatches, the arrival of his daughter, Wednesday, may soon change that habit. He recognizes that fatherhood might present the perfect reason to finally sit down and watch all the movies alongside his child, possibly with new eyes and a softened view of his early work.
“I will probably have to watch them with her,”
—Rupert Grint, Actor
Actors Who Share Grint’s Reluctance
Grint is not alone in distancing himself from his own filmography. Prominent figures like Johnny Depp, Meryl Streep, and Jared Leto have all expressed similar feelings, often stemming from the emotional demands of acting and the discomfort of revisiting their own performances. This pattern is fairly common among actors who invest deeply in their craft.
Legacy and What Lies Ahead
While his post-Harry Potter career may not have scaled the same heights as those of Emma Watson or Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint’s portrayal of Ron Weasley remains beloved worldwide, earning him a permanent place in pop culture’s memory. The actor’s honesty regarding self-critique, paired with his willingness to embrace the films for his daughter’s sake, only deepens the affection fans feel for him. As Wednesday grows up, a full family rewatch—complete with snacks and pajamas—seems inevitable, offering Grint a fresh perspective on his storied past and an opportunity to share the magic with a new generation.
