Natalie Portman, born Natalie Hershlag on June 9, 1981, is an Israeli-born American actress known for her versatile and critically acclaimed performances in a wide range of films. From her early beginnings in Jerusalem to her rise as one of Hollywood's most respected actresses, Portman's career is marked by numerous milestones and achievements.
Birth
June 9, 1981
Natalie Portman was born Natalie Hershlag in Jerusalem, Israel, to Avner Hershlag, an Israeli-born doctor, and Shelley Stevens, an American-born artist. Her first language was Hebrew, which she still speaks fluently.
Discovery
Age 11
Portman was discovered by an agent in a pizza parlor. Initially pushed towards a career in modeling, she decided to pursue acting instead.
Film Debut
1994
Portman made her powerful film debut in the movie Léon: The Professional, playing the young protégée of a hitman.
Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace
1999
Portman gained international recognition for starring as Padmé Amidala in Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace, a role that catapulted her to worldwide fame.
Harvard University
1999-2003
Portman attended Harvard University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in psychology. During this period, she reduced her number of acting roles but continued to act in the Star Wars prequel trilogy.
Academy Award Nomination
2004
Portman was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the romantic drama Closer.
Academy Award Win
2010
Portman won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of a troubled ballerina in the psychological thriller Black Swan.
Thor
2011
Portman starred as Jane Foster in the Marvel Cinematic Universe superhero film Thor, a role she reprised in Thor: The Dark World (2013) and Thor: Love and Thunder (2022).
Jackie
2016
Portman portrayed Jacqueline Kennedy in the biopic Jackie, earning her a third Academy Award nomination.
MountainA Production Company
2021
Portman co-founded the production company MountainA, which produced and starred her in the drama May December (2023).
