Alex Watson is a British former model and entrepreneur, best known as the younger brother of the actress Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films. Born on 15 December 1992 in Paris, he first gained attention through modelling, most notably for Burberry, before building his own career in the drinks industry. In 2023, he co-founded the sustainable gin brand Renais alongside his sister.
Although he is widely known as Emma Watson’s brother, Alex Watson has steadily built his own identity, moving from fashion into business and entrepreneurship. This article looks at his background, his family, his modelling and Harry Potter connections, and his growing success in the world of premium spirits.
Alex Watson: Quick Facts
| Full Name | Alexander Chris Watson |
| Date of Birth | 15 December 1992 |
| Age | 33 (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Paris, France |
| Nationality | British |
| Sister | Emma Watson (actress) |
| Occupation | Former model, entrepreneur |
| Known For | Modelling for Burberry; co-founding Renais Gin |
| Business | Co-founder of Renais (Renais Gin) |
Who Is Alex Watson?
Alex Watson, whose full name is Alexander Chris Watson, is a British former model and entrepreneur. He is best known as the younger brother of Emma Watson, one of the most famous actresses of her generation, but he has also carved out his own career, first in fashion and later in the drinks business.
After stepping away from modelling, Alex moved into hospitality and marketing, and he is now recognised as the co-founder of a modern, sustainability-focused gin brand. He tends to keep his personal life private, letting his work and his family connections speak for themselves.
Alex Watson’s Early Life and Family
Alex Watson was born on 15 December 1992 in Paris, France, and was raised between France and England. His parents, Chris Watson and Jacqueline Luesby, are both lawyers, and his family has long had a connection to France, including a wine estate in the Chablis region.
His older sister is Emma Watson, born in 1990, with whom he has always been close. Alex also has several half-siblings, including twin half-sisters, Nina and Lucy, and a half-brother, Toby. Growing up alongside a sister who became famous at a young age, Alex experienced the world of celebrity early, but largely from the sidelines.
Alex Watson’s Modelling and Harry Potter Connection
Alex Watson first appeared in the public eye through the Harry Potter films, taking a small, background role as a student in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, alongside his sister Emma. It was a minor part, but it linked him to one of the most successful film franchises of all time.
He then moved into modelling, and gained wider attention when he appeared in a Burberry campaign in 2010, modelling alongside Emma. He also modelled for the eyewear brand Silhouette. Often noted for his strong resemblance to his sister, Alex enjoyed a brief but high-profile spell in fashion before deciding that modelling was not his long-term ambition.
How Did Alex Watson Build His Business Career?
After stepping away from modelling, Alex Watson pursued a career in the drinks and hospitality industry. He gained valuable experience working for the global drinks company Diageo, where he worked with well-known brands, developing expertise in marketing and the spirits business.
This background gave him the knowledge and industry insight that would later allow him to launch a company of his own, combining his professional experience with his family’s long-standing connection to French winemaking.
Alex Watson and Renais Gin
In 2023, Alex Watson and his sister Emma Watson together co-founded Renais, a premium gin brand also known as Renais Gin. The business reflects both siblings’ interest in sustainability, as the gin is made using upcycled grape skins from the family’s vineyard in Chablis, France.
Renais is positioned as a modern, environmentally conscious spirit, and the project has allowed Alex and Emma to work together as business partners. Alex, who describes himself as a co-founder of the brand, has taken a leading role in its development, drawing on his experience in the drinks industry. The venture has helped establish him as an entrepreneur in his own right, rather than simply as a celebrity sibling.
Where Is Alex Watson Today?
As of 2026, Alex Watson is focused on growing Renais and on his work in the premium drinks sector. He keeps his personal life private, with no publicly confirmed details about his relationships, preferring to keep the spotlight on his business rather than himself.
As the sibling of a global star who has forged his own path, Alex has much in common with Lyndrea Price, the private sister of tennis champions Serena and Venus Williams. The Sheffield Magazine also profiles many figures from entertainment and the arts, such as the actor and singer Steven Houghton.
Why Alex Watson’s Story Stands Out
Alex Watson’s journey is a good example of how someone connected to fame can step out of a famous sibling’s shadow and build a distinct identity. Rather than relying on the Watson name, he gained real experience in the drinks industry and turned it into a business of his own.
By co-founding a sustainable gin brand rooted in his family’s heritage, Alex has combined creativity, business sense, and a commitment to sustainability. His story shows that being the brother of a global star can be a starting point, rather than the whole story, of a successful career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Alex Watson?
Alex Watson is a British former model and entrepreneur, and the younger brother of actress Emma Watson. He is a co-founder of the gin brand Renais.
When was Alex Watson born?
He was born on 15 December 1992 in Paris, France, which makes him 33 years old as of 2026.
Did Alex Watson appear in Harry Potter?
Yes. He had a small background role as a student in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, alongside his sister Emma.
What is Renais Gin?
Renais is a sustainable premium gin brand that Alex co-founded with Emma Watson in 2023, made using upcycled grapes from their family’s vineyard in France.
Is Alex Watson related to Emma Watson?
Yes. Alex Watson is Emma Watson’s younger brother.

