Natalie Portman is one of Hollywood’s most talented and versatile actresses, known for her intelligence, grace, and commitment to her craft. From winning an Academy Award to earning a degree from Harvard, Portman’s life is filled with fascinating stories. Here are 10 interesting and fun facts about the beloved actress that every fan should know.
1. She Was Born in Israel
While many know her as a Hollywood star, Natalie Portman was actually born in Jerusalem, Israel, on June 9, 1981. Her birth name is Neta-Lee Hershlag, and she later adopted “Portman” as her stage name to protect her family’s privacy when she began acting.
2. She’s a Harvard Graduate
Portman is not just a talented actress; she’s also incredibly intelligent. She attended Harvard University and graduated with a degree in psychology in 2003. During her time at Harvard, she even contributed to research papers in neuroscience.
3. She Turned Down a Role in a Blockbuster Film
Natalie Portman was offered a role in the 2001 film The Horse Whisperer, but she turned it down to focus on her high school studies. This decision reflects her dedication to education, proving that she values learning just as much as acting.
4. She’s a Polyglot
Portman is fluent in multiple languages, including Hebrew, English, French, German, Spanish, and Japanese. Her impressive linguistic skills allow her to connect with fans and colleagues around the world.
5. She Made Her Film Debut at Just 12 Years Old
Portman’s first major film role came when she was just 12 years old in Léon: The Professional (1994). Her performance as Mathilda, a young girl seeking revenge for her family’s murder, showcased her immense talent at an early age.
6. She Won an Oscar for Black Swan
Portman delivered a breathtaking performance in Darren Aronofsky’s psychological thriller Black Swan (2010). Her role as a tormented ballerina earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, as well as a Golden Globe and a BAFTA award.
7. She’s Passionate About Animal Rights
A longtime advocate for animal rights, Portman has been a vegetarian since childhood and later transitioned to veganism. She has worked with organizations like PETA and even narrated the documentary Eating Animals, which explores the effects of factory farming.
8. She’s a Producer and Director
Portman isn’t just a talented actress; she has also worked behind the camera. She directed the 2015 film A Tale of Love and Darkness, an adaptation of Amos Oz’s memoir. Additionally, she has produced several films, showcasing her skills beyond acting.
9. She Played Two Roles in Star Wars
Many fans may not realize that Portman essentially played two roles in the Star Wars prequel trilogy. She portrayed Padmé Amidala, the queen-turned-senator, and also her handmaiden decoy, Sabé, in The Phantom Menace (1999).
10. She Has a Dance Background
Portman trained extensively in ballet for her role in Black Swan, but she had dance experience long before that. She studied ballet and modern dance as a child, which helped her execute the physically demanding choreography in the film.
Final Thoughts
Natalie Portman is not only a Hollywood icon but also an inspiring individual with a wide range of talents and passions. From excelling academically to captivating audiences with her performances, she continues to impress and inspire fans worldwide.
Back when she was at Harvard, Natalie Portman booked The Roots, but not Jimmy, to perform for her classmates. Watch below: