Why Does Natalie Portman Still Feel Like a Child on Set?
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Synopsis
In a candid revelation, Natalie Portman reflects on her three-decade journey in Hollywood, sharing her ongoing struggle with being perceived as a child despite her success. Discover how this iconic actress navigates the complexities of growing up in the spotlight and the impact of her past on her present relationships.
Key Takeaways
- Natalie Portman has a 30-year career in Hollywood.
- She still feels treated like a child despite her success.
- Portman emphasizes the importance of a serious persona for child actors.
- Friendships with fellow child actors provide support and understanding.
- Her experiences highlight the challenges of growing up in the spotlight.
Los Angeles, May 29 (NationPress) Hollywood actress Natalie Portman, who first captivated audiences in ‘Leon: The Professional’, boasts an impressive career spanning 30 years.
However, the actress revealed that people still "treat her like a child,” according to ‘Female First UK’.
The 43-year-old, who gained recognition as a young star in 1999's 'Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace', stated that despite growing up in the spotlight and adopting a “serious persona” to counteract public perceptions, she continues to grapple with this issue.
During a discussion about Jenna Ortega, Natalie shared with ‘Harper's Bazaar’, “We’re both physically tiny, so people will often treat you like a child forever. I’m 43 now, and people kind of pat me on the head. I don’t look like a child, but I often feel like I’m treated like a kid.”
She elaborated, “Child actors often cultivate a serious persona because otherwise they’ll get treated like kids forever. When you start working as a child, you kind of always feel like a kid in the workplace. Having some of that seriousness helps remind people, ‘I’m a grown-up’.” Natalie and Jenna have collaborated in the new comedy thriller 'The Gallerist', and the 'Fountain of Youth' actress noted their shared habits during breaks.
She described their behavior, saying, “We don’t sit in a chair; we just kind of squat in the corner. Catherine Zeta-Jones, another former child actress, mentioned she did the same; it’s a way of grounding yourself. There’d be all these chairs, but we’d just squat and look at each other and be like, ‘Wow, this is weird’.”
Meanwhile, Jenna reflected on how valuable it has been to forge friendships with Natalie, Winona Ryder, and Natasha Lyonne, who all understand the challenges she faces.
She commented, “It’s been so beneficial and cozy. They’ve seen it all, and honestly, during a much darker time in Hollywood. We’ve all developed a jaded perspective that I don’t think we’d have if we hadn’t started so young and endured many harsh realizations and experiences. But they turned out all right.”
Point of View
I find Natalie Portman's experiences both relatable and thought-provoking. Her journey from a child actress to a respected figure in Hollywood sheds light on the unique challenges faced by those who grow up in the public eye. Portman's candid reflections highlight the complexities of identity and perception in the entertainment industry, making her story not just a personal narrative, but a broader commentary on the nature of fame.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Natalie Portman been in the industry?
Natalie Portman has been in the Hollywood industry for 30 years, having made her debut in 'Leon: The Professional'.
What challenges does she face as a former child actress?
Natalie Portman notes that she is often treated like a child on set, despite her age and experience, which can be a challenge for former child actors.
Who are some of the actresses Natalie Portman has befriended?
Natalie Portman has developed friendships with actresses like Jenna Ortega, Winona Ryder, and Natasha Lyonne, who understand the unique pressures of starting young in Hollywood.
