Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman was born on June 9, 1981, in Jerusalem, Israel. Born Natalie Hershlag, she is the only child of Avner Hershlag, an Israeli-born doctor, and Shelley Stevens, an American homemaker. The family relocated to the United States when she was three years old, eventually settling in Syosset, New York, where she was raised. Portman would go on to become a celebrated actress, known for her versatility and intelligence, both on and off-screen.

Natalie Portman gained international fame when she starred as Padmé Amidala in 'Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace,' which premiered on May 19, 1999. The role was a significant part of the Star Wars prequel trilogy, and this film brought her considerable attention. Despite mixed reviews of the film itself, Portman's performance was praised, and it established her as a prominent figure in the acting world, marking the beginning of her association with one of cinema’s most beloved franchises.

On June 5, 2003, Natalie Portman graduated from Harvard University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology. While continuing to act throughout her college years, she emphasized the importance of education and balanced her time between the classroom and film sets. Her commitment to academics and acting alike challenged the stereotype of Hollywood stars not pursuing higher education and she became a role model for many young people. This achievement highlighted her dedication to both her personal growth and professional career.

Natalie Portman reprised her role as Padmé Amidala in 'Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith,' which was released on May 19, 2005. Concluding the Star Wars prequel trilogy, this film was commercially successful and well-received by audiences and critics alike. Portman’s portrayal of Padmé was integral to the storyline of the trilogy, showcasing her growth as an actress through the more complex, emotional demands of the role. The film marked the end of her tenure in the iconic Star Wars universe.

On September 1, 2010, 'Black Swan' premiered at the Venice Film Festival, earning critical acclaim. Natalie Portman starred in the psychological thriller directed by Darren Aronofsky, portraying a ballerina named Nina Sayers. The film showcased her intense dedication to her craft, as she underwent rigorous ballet training and a physical transformation for the role. Her performance was lauded as one of the best of her career, and 'Black Swan' went on to receive numerous accolades, setting the stage for her later award recognitions.

On February 27, 2011, Natalie Portman was awarded the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in 'Black Swan.' Portman's portrayal of Nina Sayers, a psychologically troubled ballerina, was met with universal praise and earned her multiple awards throughout the season, including a Golden Globe and a BAFTA. The Oscar win was a pivotal moment in her career, solidifying her status as a leading actress and recognizing her outstanding performance and dedication to the challenging role.

Natalie Portman gave birth to her first child, a son named Aleph Portman-Millepied, on June 14, 2011. This personal milestone occurred amid a remarkable phase of her professional life as she was receiving accolades for her role in 'Black Swan.' Portman shares Aleph with her husband, Benjamin Millepied, whom she met on the set of 'Black Swan,' where he served as a choreographer. The couple's growing family marked a new chapter in Portman's life, balancing her flourishing career with motherhood.

On August 4, 2012, Natalie Portman married Benjamin Millepied, a French dancer and choreographer, in a private ceremony in Big Sur, California. The couple first met on the set of 'Black Swan,' where Millepied was the film’s primary choreographer. Their wedding was a significant personal milestone for Portman, and the couple's commitment to keeping the event intimate reflected their desire for privacy and focus on close relationships. The marriage was celebrated among friends and family, marking the union of two prominent figures in entertainment and dance.

Natalie Portman starred in the biographical drama 'Jackie,' which premiered on September 7, 2016, at the Venice Film Festival. She portrayed Jacqueline Kennedy in the film, which focuses on the days following President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Portman’s nuanced performance, capturing the complexities of grief and resilience, drew widespread acclaim. Her portrayal was hailed as a significant achievement in her career, showcasing her ability to embody historical figures with both depth and empathy, earning nominations for major awards including an Oscar.

On February 22, 2017, Natalie Portman and Benjamin Millepied welcomed their second child, a daughter named Amalia Millepied. The birth of their daughter was a joyful addition to their family, which already included their son, Aleph. Following Amalia's arrival, Portman continued to manage her prosperous acting career and family life. This new chapter highlighted the actress's role as a devoted mother and partner, alongside her professional endeavors in the entertainment industry, where she is celebrated for her talent and grace.

Natalie Portman was honored by being included in the Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world, published on March 27, 2017. This recognition celebrated her multifaceted impact, not only for her stellar achievements in acting, but also for her advocacy on numerous social issues, including women's rights and environmental causes. Portman’s influence extends beyond her roles on the screen, as she is known for using her platform to advocate for positive change, making significant contributions to cultural and social discussions.

In early 2018, Natalie Portman was announced as a recipient of the Genesis Prize, often referred to as the 'Jewish Nobel.' However, on May 17, 2018, she declined to attend the awards ceremony in Jerusalem, citing her discomfort with attending an event where she felt compelled to show support for the policies of the Israeli government. This decision sparked widespread discussion and highlighted her commitment to her political and ethical beliefs. Despite the controversy, Portman emphasized her continued pride in her Jewish heritage and desire to foster positive change.

On October 6, 2021, it was announced that Natalie Portman would star in and executive produce the Apple TV+ series, 'Lady in the Lake.' The series is an adaptation of Laura Lippman’s novel of the same name and marks Portman’s television series debut as a lead character. Set in 1960s Baltimore, the series explores issues of race, gender, and class. This project highlights Portman’s continued evolution as an actress and producer, underlining her commitment to telling diverse and meaningful stories in a new medium.

The production of 'Thor: Love and Thunder' wrapped on May 5, 2022, with Natalie Portman reprising her role as Jane Foster/Mighty Thor. Directed by Taika Waititi, this film sees Portman's character assume the mantle of the Mighty Thor, marking a vital moment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Her involvement in the powerful role is a milestone for both the actress and the franchise, showcasing strong female characters in positions of power and influence, and highlighting Portman’s versatility and commitment to engaging with impactful roles.