Natalie Portman, born Natalie Hershlag on June 9, 1981, in Jerusalem, is an acclaimed Israeli-American actress and filmmaker. She began her acting career at 12 with her breakout role in Léon: The Professional and gained international fame as Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars prequel trilogy. A Harvard graduate in psychology, Portman has won numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for her performance in Black Swan. Beyond acting, she is a director, producer, and advocate for women's rights, environmental issues, and animal welfare. Her career spans blockbusters, indie films, and thought-provoking dramas.