Natalie Portman Biography

Full name: Natalie Hershlag
Date of birth: June 9, 1981
Birthplace: Jerusalem, Israel
Nationality: Israeli-American
Profession: Actress, filmmaker and producer

Natalie Portman is an internationally acclaimed actress known for her intelligence, versatility and powerful performances. She became famous at a young age and went on to establish herself as one of Hollywood's most respected actresses.

1. Early life and education

Natalie Portman was born on June 9, 1981, in Jerusalem, Israel. Her birth name was Natalie Hershlag. Her father, Avner Hershlag, is a physician, and her mother, Shelley Stevens, is an artist.

When she was a child, her family moved to the United States. She grew up primarily on Long Island, New York.

She studied at Harvard University and graduated in 2003 with a degree in psychology. She has also spoken about the importance of education alongside her acting career.

2. Acting career and breakthrough

Natalie began her professional acting career as a teenager.

Her major career milestones include:

• 1994 – Léon: The Professional: Her film debut, in which she played Mathilda.
• 1995 – Heat: Appeared alongside Al Pacino and Robert De Niro.
• 1999 – Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace: Became internationally famous as Queen Padmé Amidala.
• 2004 – Closer: Earned critical acclaim for her performance.
• 2005 – V for Vendetta: Played Evey Hammond.
• 2010 – Black Swan: Delivered one of the most acclaimed performances of her career.
• 2016 – Jackie: Portrayed former US First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy.
• 2022 – Thor: Love and Thunder: Returned to Marvel as Jane Foster.

Natalie has received several major international awards.

• Academy Award (Oscar): Best Actress for Black Swan (2011).
• Golden Globe Awards: Two wins.
• BAFTA Award: Best Actress for Black Swan.
• Academy Award nomination: Best Supporting Actress for Closer.
• Academy Award nomination: Best Actress for Jackie.

Her portrayal of a psychologically troubled ballet dancer in Black Swan is considered one of her finest performances.

Natalie married French dancer and choreographer Benjamin Millepied in 2012. They have two children:

• Aleph, born in 2011.
• Amalia, born in 2017.

Their divorce was finalized in 2024. Natalie generally keeps her children's lives private.

5. Other interests and social work

Beyond acting, Natalie is involved in several causes:

• Gender equality and women's rights.
• Animal welfare and vegetarianism.
• Education and poverty reduction.
• Film production and directing.

She also directed the 2015 film A Tale of Love and Darkness, based on the novel by Israeli author Amos Oz.

6. Interesting facts

1. She was discovered by a talent scout at a pizza restaurant as a child.
2. She graduated from Harvard University while maintaining her acting career.
3. She speaks English and Hebrew.
4. She has worked in independent films as well as major Hollywood franchises.
5. She has worked as an actress, director, producer and author.