Watson 'still intimidated by J.K. Rowling'

Rex Features

Emma Watson has admitted that she is "still intimidated" by Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling.

The actress, who plays Hermione Granger in the magical franchise, told the Los Angeles Times that she is still in awe of Rowling's achievements with the seven-part series.

"I must admit I still feel quite intimidated by her," she said.

"Not because she is actually intimidating, but because I admire her so much, and we have all been such mad fans of the books and her and everything."

Watson, whose character is partly based on Rowling's own childhood persona, added that she was desperate to gain the writer's approval when she visited the set of the latest movie.

"I just really want her to like me," she said. "I was always really keen to telling her how I feel, and maybe it’s a bit much. She is so down to earth and funny and witty... I definitely see Hermione in her. She’s genuine and brilliant."

Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince is released on July 17.