Summary
Natalie PortmanandKeira Knightleyare two of Hollywood’s most prominent actresses, and their striking resemblance leads some to believe they’re related. Born in Jerusalem and raised in America, Portman’s career took off with her breakout role as Mathilda in 1994’sLéon: The Professional. She became a household name after starring inStar Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace(1999), and earned the Oscar for Best Actress for her role inBlack Swan, solidifying her reputation as an accomplished actress.Portman’s ability to switch between dramatic rolesand major franchises has kept her at the forefront of Hollywood.
Renowned British actress Keira Knightleyfirst gained traction with her role inBend It Like Beckhamas football-obsessed teenager Jules Paxton. This success led to her iconic performances inPirates of the Caribbean,Love ActuallyandPride & Prejudice. Over the years, she has continued to impress with a range of roles in both period dramas and contemporary films, earning Oscar nominations and winning awards for her powerful performances.
Black Doves Season 1: Everything You Need To Know
Keira Knightley and Ben Whishaw star in the exciting Netflix spy series Black Doves, and here’s everything to know about season 1.
Keira Knightley Was Cast In Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace Because Of Her Resemblance To Natalie Portman
The Two Actresses Are Not Related
Natalie Portman and Keira Knightley, though not related,are often confused for the other due to their striking physical resemblance. Both actresses have similar facial features, including high cheekbones, delicate noses, and expressive eyes, which has led to frequent comparisons. Their uncanny resemblance made it an easy choice for Knightley to be cast as Sabé, thedecoy for Padmé Amidala (Portman) inStar Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Sabé provided an integral service to her queen, particularly during the Invasion of Naboo.
The actresses look so much alike that even their families couldn’t tell them apart during the filming ofThe Phantom Menace. Knightley confessed toThe Telegraph, “Our mums did actually confuse us on set.” And while thatStar Warsmovie is over 25 years old, Portman recently confessed toVanity Fairthat people still mistake her for Knightley. “All the time, all the time. Keira Knightley. Very flattering,” she said.
Portman & Knightley Aren’t The Only Actors To Be Mistaken For Other Celebrities
Timothy Olyphant & Josh Duhamel Have Also Fooled Family Members
It’s certainly not uncommon for celebrities to get mixed up for each other in Hollywood.Timothy Olyphant and Josh Duhamelhave also been confused for one anotherseveral times, thanks to their square jaws, dark eyes, and pronounced brow ridges. In a 2021 interview withConan, Olyphant states that “[Josh Duhamel]did my family Christmas card. He posed with my family, and we sent that out as my Christmas card.”
The pair first met at a charity baseball event, and decided to have some fun with their similar appearances. Olyphant asked Duhamel to pose with his family, which became the Olyphant Christmas card that year and even fooled Olyphant’s mother. It seems as thoughNatalie Portman and Keira Knightleyaren’t the only ones who have tricked their own families.
Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace
Cast
Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace is set in a galaxy facing political turmoil, as Jedi Knights Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi seek peace while encountering Anakin Skywalker, a slave with great potential in the Force. Meanwhile, the Sith begin their resurgence, threatening the stability of the Republic.
