Natalie Portman, born Neta-Lee Hershlag on June 9, 1981, is a versatile actress holding both American and Israeli citizenship. She made her acting debut in the 1994 thriller Léon: The Professional, where she starred alongside Jean Reno. Portman gained international fame for her portrayal of Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars prequel trilogy, which debuted in 1999, followed by releases in 2002 and 2005.
Originally from Jerusalem, Portman moved to the United States at the age of three. She honed her talents in dance and acting while living in New York. While still a high school student on Long Island, she appeared in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. In 1999, she began her studies at Harvard University, focusing on psychology, all while continuing her acting career. She graduated in 2003, during which time she also starred in the second Star Wars film and performed in Anton Chekhov's The Seagull at The Public Theater.
Portman's career is marked by significant accolades, including a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination for her role in the 2004 film Closer. She won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her stunning performance in the 2010 psychological thriller Black Swan, along with several other prestigious awards. In 2016, she portrayed Jacqueline Kennedy in Jackie, earning numerous nominations and another BFCA win for Best Actress. Portman has also ventured into directing, making her feature film debut with A Tale of Love and Darkness in 2015. Notably, she served as the youngest member of the jury at the 61st Cannes Film Festival in 2008.
