Emma Watson was offered the role of Cinderella in 2015 but decided to pass on it. Yes, before mesmerizing audiences as Belle in Beauty and the Beast, Watson had a chance to don the glass slippers, but it simply wasn’t for her. In an interview with Total Film, she revealed, “I didn’t know they were going to make Beauty and the Beast when I turned down Cinderella.” When the opportunity to play Belle arose, Watson felt a deep connection with the character. “The character resonated with me so much more than Cinderella did,” she shared, and for a good reason.
Belle isn’t just a pretty face or another princess in a ball gown—she’s intelligent, compassionate, and fiercely independent. Watson found inspiration in portraying a character with these qualities, saying, “That’s the kind of woman I want to embody as a role model.” But Watson’s Belle wasn’t a passive character waiting to be saved. Collaborating closely with director Bill Condon, Watson transformed Belle into a modern heroine. This version of Belle was determined to challenge societal norms and maintain her individuality—making her a princess everyone could admire.
Reimagining Belle: From Bookworm to Inventor
Watson and the creative team gave Belle a new layer of depth by expanding her backstory. No longer just a book lover, Belle was also an inventor. “I was like, ‘Well, there was never very much information or detail at the story’s beginning as to why Belle didn’t fit in, other than she liked books,’” Watson explained. In this version, Belle’s inventive nature—illustrated by her creation of a washing machine—showcased her intelligence and ingenuity.
Emma Watson’s Perfect Fit as Belle
Ultimately, Watson’s decision to turn down Cinderella led to one of her most iconic performances. While Cinderella suited Lily James perfectly, Watson brought Belle to life in a way that resonated with audiences worldwide. She gave us a heroine who was not just strong and kind but also determined to chart her own course.
Beauty and the Beast became a box office sensation, and Watson’s portrayal of Belle captivated fans. It’s clear that her decision to step away from Cinderella was the right one. Sometimes, passing on one role is the universe’s way of leading you to an even greater opportunity. For Emma Watson, that meant becoming the Belle we’ll always admire—curious, bold, and unapologetically herself.