Natalie Portman Opens Up About Struggling with Backlash from Star Wars Role
Natalie Portman, who started her entertainment career at 13, is now a highly sought-after actress. When she joined the Star Wars prequels, she was just a teenager. She has since been part of many iconic franchises, including the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, her role as Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars trilogy remains a milestone in her career.
Padmé Amidala, portrayed by Natalie, has become one of the most famous and recognizable characters due to her exceptional performance. Despite facing criticism and backlash for her role, she recently discussed her experience in the film series and her thoughts on the criticism.
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Natalie Portman on her experience of Star Wars
In an interview with Total Film (Games Radar), Natalie reflected on her time in the Star Wars prequels, saying, “I see it as an extraordinarily lucky thing to have been part of. I know how meaningful it is for people. And, every day, still, people are like, ‘I just watched it with my kids.’ To be part of something like that that’s part of that cultural mythology, and part of people’s childhoods, in such a vibrant way, is so, so lucky.”
Discussing the backlash and criticism she faced, Natalie Portman added, “And, yeah, I think obviously with the reaction to them when they came out, being as harsh at it was – it was hard. And obviously, over time they’ve gained more appreciation, which has been nice, to always feel the balm of time. But, yeah, I feel very blessed to have been part of that, at that moment in my life.”
As Star Wars Episode 1 – The Phantom Menace celebrated its 25th anniversary, it was re-released in theaters. Reflecting on its revival, the actress remarked, “You can only be so lucky to get to be part of something like that, you know? It’s not something you can really plan for.”
How old was Natalie Portman while shooting the Star Wars trilogy?
Natalie seized the opportunity to star in the Star Wars trilogy shortly after starting her acting career. She was just 16 years old when she took on the role of Padmé Amidala in The Phantom Menace, only two years older than her character at the time. By Attack of the Clones, she was 19, and in Revenge of the Sith, she was 22.
Natalie Portman is now preparing for her upcoming projects, with “Lady in the Lake” set to release on July 19, 2024, on Apple TV Plus.
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