Natalie Portman: podcast appearances and interviews

Natalie Hershlag, professionally known as Natalie Portman, is an actress, film producer, and director with dual Israeli and American citizenship. She was born in Jerusalem on June 9, 1981, and moved to the United States at the age of three. Portman began her acting career at twelve, with an early role in Léon: The Professional. While still in high school, she made her Broadway debut in The Diary of Anne Frank and gained international recognition for her portrayal of Padmé Amidala in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. She attended Harvard University from 1999 to 2003, earning a bachelor's degree in psychology, which coincided with her continued work on the Star Wars prequel trilogy and stage performances such as Anton Chekhov's The Seagull. Her film career notably advanced in 2004 with a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award nomination for her supporting role in Closer. She gained critical acclaim for her performances in V for Vendetta, The Other Boleyn Girl, and Black Swan, the latter earning her the Academy Award for Best Actress. Portman has also played significant roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Jane Foster, appearing in Thor and its sequels. Beyond acting, she has directed short films and a biographical feature, and in 2021 co-founded the production company MountainA, producing and starring in projects such as May December and the miniseries Lady in the Lake. She is actively involved in advocacy for women's rights, environmental issues, and animal welfare through support of organizations like the Human Rights Foundation and the Jane Goodall Institute.