Natalie Portman Then & Now: Photos of the Oscar-Winning Actress

Natalie Portman’s career has spanned decades. Here’s a look back at her incredible transformation over the years in photos.

From a young breakout in The Professional to a Marvel superhero, there’s little Natalie Portman hasn’t done. The Israeli-American actress, born on June 9, 1981, made her film debut at just 12 years old in The Professional, quickly establishing herself as one of Hollywood’s most promising young talents. She went on to achieve global recognition after being cast as Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars prequel trilogy.

Natalie went on to build an acclaimed and wide-ranging career, starring in films such as Where the Heart Is, V for Vendetta, Closer, Jackie, Vox Lux, and Black Swan — the latter earning her the Academy Award for Best Actress. In more recent years, she has continued to balance prestige projects with mainstream success, earning praise for her performance in May December and starring in the Apple TV+ limited series Lady in the Lake. She also remains part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, portraying Jane Foster — and later Mighty Thor — in the Thor franchise.

Outside of her career, Natalie is a mother of two and has often spoken about balancing parenthood with her work in film. She was previously married to choreographer Benjamin Millepied, with whom she shares her children.

Want to see Natalie’s evolution? See how she went from a young ingenue to full-blown superstar in our gallery here.