Natalie Portman Biography
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Natalie Hershlag (Portman is mother's maiden name) |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 9, 1981 |
| Age | 45 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Jerusalem, Israel |
| Nationality | Israeli-American |
| Profession | Actress, director |
| Years Active | 1994-present |
| Height | 5 ft 3 in (1.60 m) |
| Spouse | Previously married to dancer Benjamin Millepied (2012-2023) |
| Children | 2 |
| Net Worth | ~$95 million |
| Known For | Transformative performances, Harvard education, political activism |
Early Life & Background
Portman moved to the United States at age three, growing up on Long Island. Discovered by a Revlon scout, she pursued acting instead of modeling, debuting in Luc Besson's Léon: The Professional (1994) at age 12. She graduated from Harvard University in 2003 with a psychology degree, balancing studies with film work.
Career Journey
Blockbuster & Indie Balance
Portman played Padmé Amidala in George Lucas' Star Wars prequels (1999-2005), achieving global recognition. She earned Golden Globe nominations for Anywhere but Here and Closer, winning the latter. Portman starred in V for Vendetta, Brothers, and Wes Anderson projects, showcasing range.
Oscar-Winning Turn
Her portrayal of ballerina Nina Sayers in Darren Aronofsky's Black Swan (2010) earned Academy Award, Golden Globe, and SAG wins. She later played Jacqueline Kennedy in Jackie (2016), receiving more Oscar and BAFTA nominations.
Directing & Marvel Return
Portman directed the Hebrew-language film A Tale of Love and Darkness (2015) and co-founded MountainA with producer Sophie Mas, launching the Apple TV+ docuseries Lady in the Lake (2024). She returned to Marvel as Mighty Thor in Thor: Love and Thunder (2022) and voices animated spinoffs.
Recent Work
Portman stars in HBO's The Days of Abandonment adaptation (2026) and produces Hulu's limited series We Assume, set to explore Silicon Valley ethics. She continues to champion pay equity and environmental causes.
Filmography (Selected)
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1994 | Léon: The Professional | Mathilda | Debut |
| 1999-2005 | Star Wars Episodes I-III | Padmé Amidala | Franchise |
| 2004 | Closer | Alice | Golden Globe win |
| 2010 | Black Swan | Nina Sayers | Won Best Actress |
| 2016 | Jackie | Jacqueline Kennedy | Oscar nomination |
| 2018 | Annihilation | Lena | Sci-fi |
| 2022 | Thor: Love and Thunder | Jane Foster/Mighty Thor | MCU return |
| 2024 | May December | Elizabeth Berry | Cannes acclaim |
Awards & Nominations
| Year | Award | Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | Golden Globe Awards | Best Supporting Actress | Closer | Won |
| 2011 | Academy Awards | Best Actress | Black Swan | Won |
| 2017 | Academy Awards | Best Actress | Jackie | Nominated |
| 2024 | Cannes Film Festival | Best Actress (nominee) | May December | Nominated |
Net Worth & Income Sources
Estimated Net Worth: ~$95 million (2026)
Portman's wealth stems from film salaries, Marvel deals, producing fees, Dior endorsements, angel investments in plant-based food companies, and publishing income from children's books she authored.
Personal Life
She holds dual U.S.-Israeli citizenship, speaks Hebrew, and is a vegetarian turned plant-based advocate. Portman splits time between Los Angeles and Paris, co-parenting with ex-husband Benjamin Millepied. She enjoys cooking, running, and advocating for educational access for girls.
Philanthropy & Activism
Portman supports FINCA microfinance, WE Charity, and served as Ambassador of Hope for Free the Children. She champions animal rights with PETA, campaigned for the Time's Up movement, and invests in climate tech through sustainable funds.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram: @natalieportman shares activism, vegan recipes, Dior campaigns, and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
Lesser-Known Facts
- Portman co-authored a scientific paper on memory released by Harvard researchers.
- She trained extensively in ballet for Black Swan, performing most of her own dance sequences.
- Portman declined high-profile roles to finish college, including The Horse Whisperer.
- She served on the jury of the 2018 Venice Film Festival.
Latest News & Updates (2026)
Portman is filming HBO's The Days of Abandonment, producing the Apple TV+ drama Lady in the Lake Season 2, and launching a MountainA mentorship program for female directors. She will host a UN Women summit focusing on sustainable fashion initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Natalie Portman?
Natalie Portman is an Israeli-American actress and director known for Star Wars, Black Swan, and Jackie.
What is Natalie Portman most famous for?
She is most famous for her Academy Award-winning role in Black Swan and for playing Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars prequels.
Is Natalie Portman active on social media?
Yes. Portman actively posts on Instagram, highlighting activism, family-friendly cooking, and upcoming releases.