How Old Is Natalie Portman In The Professional?
Natalie Portman, one of Hollywood’s most talented actresses, made her film debut at the young age of 13 in the breakout film “Léon: The Professional.” Directed by Luc Besson, the movie tells the gripping story of a mentor-mentee relationship between a skilled hitman and a young girl named Mathilda, portrayed by Portman.
While “The Professional” garnered widespread acclaim and established Portman as a rising star, it has also been marred by controversy in recent years. Luc Besson, the director behind the film, faced sexual misconduct allegations, which raised questions about the dynamics portrayed in the movie. Despite these dark aspects, “The Professional” remains a significant milestone in Natalie Portman’s early acting career.
Natalie Portman’s Age and Controversy in “The Professional”
When Natalie Portman made her film debut in “The Professional,” she was just 12 years old. However, her age in relation to the film’s content sparked controversy and ignited a significant debate.
Although there are no explicit sexual or romantic undertones between Portman’s character, Mathilda, and the hitman Leon, some viewers perceived their relationship as unsettling. The film originally included a scene in which Mathilda tries to seduce Leon, but it was ultimately cut due to its inappropriate nature.
This controversy surrounding Portman’s age in relation to the film’s content has since become associated with her debut role. It has created a gray area in discussions about the appropriateness of certain elements within the movie.
Despite the controversy, it’s essential to separate Portman’s portrayal of Mathilda from any real-life associations. Portman’s performance in “The Professional” showcased her talent and marked the beginning of her successful acting career.
Natalie Portman’s Reflection on “The Professional”
In a recent interview, Natalie Portman openly reflected on her experience working on “The Professional,” her debut movie that holds both personal significance and contentious aspects. The actress described certain elements of the film as “cringey” and acknowledged their lasting impact on her career and personal growth.
At just 13 years old during the filming of “The Professional,” Portman felt the weight of needing to be “prudish” and “conservative” to avoid the sexualization that commonly plagues young actresses in Hollywood. This unpleasant experience motivated her to become a passionate advocate for empowering women in the industry who face similar challenges.
Portman has used her platform to shed light on the sexualization and objectification that young actresses often endure, advocating for more respectful and equitable treatment within the entertainment business. Despite the hurdles encountered early in her career, Portman has persevered and established herself as a highly respected actress both on and off the screen.
