Rupert Grint, best known for playing Ron Weasley in the Harry Potter series, used some of his earnings from the films to fulfill a childhood dream: owning an ice cream van. Despite earning around £37 million ($47 million USD) from his role in the franchise, Grint is known to be the lowest-earning actor among the series’ main trio. However, his substantial income allowed him to purchase an ice cream van, a job he dreamed of as a child.
In a 2014 interview, Grint shared a funny anecdote about his early days as an ice cream van owner. He recalled stopping at a pub to turn around and encountering a group of children who wanted to buy ice cream, only for him to realize his van wasn’t stocked with any treats. Since then, he has made sure to keep the van well-stocked with various frozen treats, including a Mr. Whippy ice cream machine.
Grint enjoys driving around local villages outside of peak summer months and giving away free ice creams to kids who recognize him as “Ron Weasley.” He humorously responds to their recognition by saying, “It’s strange, I get asked that a lot.” This quirky pastime highlights Grint’s down-to-earth nature and his desire to spread joy in a simple, fun way.
Despite his fame and fortune, Grint continues to lead a relatively low-key life, recently becoming a father to a daughter with his partner, actress Georgia Groome. His story of buying an ice cream van with his movie earnings adds to his reputation as a relatable, grounded celebrity who hasn’t let Hollywood fame change his outlook on life.
