We have just been notified that Emma Watson, who plays Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film series has finally signed on the dotted line for the last two films. Last week it was reported that the young star turned down a $2 million per movie deal. Looks like Warner must have upped their offer. I’m glad to see Emma will be back, as I can’t imagine anyone else playing Hermione Granger.
Emma Watson stated, “I could never let Hermione go-she is my hero! I love her too much and love what playing her has meant to me. I am excited and honoured to be finishing what I started and playing her in all seven of the films.”

The news comes in the form of a Wanrer Brothers press release, announcing that all three stars will return for the final films. Check out the full release below:

Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson to Reprise Roles in the Final Two Installments of Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Harry Potter” Film Franchise

BURBANK, Calif.–Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson will reprise the roles they have made their own: teen wizards Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, respectively, in Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” and “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” the final two motion picture adaptations of J.K. Rowling’s best-selling book series. The announcement was made today by Jeff Robinov, President of Production, Warner Bros. Pictures.

In making the announcement, Robinov said, “When Daniel, Rupert and Emma were first cast as Harry, Ron and Hermione, we knew they were not only talented, but had a very special chemistry. Through the years, and in each of the ‘Harry Potter’ films, we have watched them grow into extraordinary young adults, as well as remarkable actors. It would be inconceivable to imagine anyone else in the roles with which they have become so identified, so we are thrilled and proud that Daniel, Rupert and Emma have chosen to complete the arc of their characters in the final two films.”

Both “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” and “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” are being produced by David Heyman, who has produced all of the Harry Potter films to date and was instrumental in bringing the franchise to the screen, beginning with the first blockbuster, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” David Barron, who served as an executive producer on “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” and “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” and is a producer on the upcoming “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” will also be producing the final two installments of the franchise.

Producer David Heyman said, “One of the highlights of this journey has been to witness Dan, Rupert and Emma blossom from children into young adults. They have emerged as consummate professionals who are dedicated to honing their craft and striving for excellence. And yet, throughout, they have retained their enthusiasm and spirit, and they remain, to this day, the same wonderful, kind and generous individuals I met all those years ago.”

Daniel Radcliffe remarked, “Playing the role of Harry Potter has been an immense privilege, and I look forward to completing the series. I feel a huge sense of loyalty to the character of Harry and the fans who have supported these films over the years. During filming, I have learnt so much, made lots of friends and met people who have changed my life. I am indebted to J K Rowling, Warner Bros. and David Heyman for giving me this fantastic opportunity.”

Emma Watson stated, “I could never let Hermione go-she is my hero! I love her too much and love what playing her has meant to me. I am excited and honoured to be finishing what I started and playing her in all seven of the films.”

Rupert Grint offered, “Ron Weasley has become a big part of my life and not just because we’ve both got ginger hair! I’ve been so proud to play him and loved every second of being part of this world. I’m really looking forward to filming the last two films and being back with my ‘Weasley family’ and, of course, to seeing my good friends Emma and Dan. Thank you to everyone for being so supportive over the years; we couldn’t have done it without you.”

Warner Bros. Pictures’ fifth film in the series, “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” is slated for release in the U.S. on July 13, 2007.