In 2019, Emma Watson introduced the term “self-partnered” when discussing her relationship status ahead of her 30th birthday. The phrase, coined in a Vogue interview, was Watson’s way of expressing contentment in being single, while resisting societal pressure to be in a romantic relationship by a certain age. She shared how approaching 30 made her feel anxious due to expectations around marriage, having children, and career stability, but she eventually realized she was happy on her own and adopted the term “self-partnered” to describe it.
The concept resonated with many people and quickly became popular, offering a more empowering way to describe singlehood. Watson explained that she initially doubted whether people who claimed to enjoy being single were truly happy, but she later embraced the idea that fulfillment doesn’t always come from being in a relationship. For her, the term highlighted personal growth and self-reliance./im
In a 2023 follow-up interview, Watson clarified that “self-partnered” wasn’t about celebrating being single, but more about acknowledging how she had learned to care for herself and take pride in her independence. She also emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with friends and family, especially after the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite being content with her solo journey, she hasn’t entirely ruled out romantic relationships and has been reportedly dating fellow Oxford University student Kieran Brown since July 2024.
Watson’s reflection on her personal growth continues to resonate with many, encouraging people to redefine what it means to be single and self-sufficient. Her message stresses the importance of personal fulfillment, community, and taking control of one’s own narrative, even outside of societal expectations for relationships.
