Natalie Portman has expressed her preference for raising her family in Paris, far from the glitz of Hollywood.
Since relocating to the City of Light in 2014, the “Black Swan” star has embraced the vibrant culture of European cities, appreciating their respectful and private atmosphere.
“Even when it’s chilly and grey, there’s always something fantastic happening—be it art shows, concerts, or intimate dinner gatherings,” Portman commented during a recent interview.
At 43, she has challenged the stereotype that Parisians are unfriendly, noting the cultural quirks that distinguish her experiences in France from those in the US. “I find people here to be quite welcoming. It’s all about understanding how to engage with them. Now, when I’m back in the US, I realize it feels strange to go into a store without greeting everyone,” she added.
The actress pointed out that cultural differences shouldn’t be mistaken for rudeness. “There’s a misconception that all Western cultures are similar, largely due to the shared pop culture, but that’s really not the case,” she stated.
Portman moved to Paris alongside her then-husband, Benjamin Millepied, whom she met while filming “Black Swan.” They share two children, Aleph and Amalia.
After their split was confirmed in March 2024 due to Millepied’s involvement with a younger activist, reports emerged that Portman is now dating a French musician named Tanguy.
Remaining in France post-divorce, Portman lauds the upbringing her children are receiving there. “Every kid who visits my house greets me with ‘Bonjour Madame’ and gives cheek kisses. They even thank me before leaving, and I appreciate that,” she remarked.
Born in Jerusalem, Portman rose to fame as a teenager, starring in hits like “The Heat” and “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace.”
Interestingly, she’s not the only celebrity to seek a different lifestyle beyond Los Angeles. Matthew McConaughey and his wife relocated to Austin, Texas, in 2014, aiming for a richer family experience. He emphasized wanting his children to enjoy a strong connection to their roots, saying, “I wanted them to have what I experienced growing up.” Similarly, “Stranger Things” star Millie Bobby Brown traded Hollywood life for farming in Georgia with her husband, despite admitting the challenges that come with it.
