Natalie Portman recently shared on a podcast that Jodie Foster reached out to her after hearing a speech where Portman discussed being sexualized as a young actor. Foster, who gained fame at 12 in 'Taxi Driver,' and Portman, who was 11 in 'Léon: The Professional,' both faced early exposure in the industry. Portman revealed that projecting seriousness on set helped protect her from potential predators, signaling a warning to stay away. She credited her mother for ensuring her safety during her child acting days and humorously mentioned her father's push to pursue a 'real job' after college.
Despite studying psychology at Harvard, Portman never fully left acting behind. She reflected on her breakthrough role in 'The Professional' amidst sexual assault allegations against the director, acknowledging the film's enduring popularity while also recognizing its problematic elements. Portman's openness about her experiences sheds light on the complexities of navigating the entertainment industry as a young performer.
Listeners can hear more about Portman's insights on the 'Smartless' podcast, where she delves into her career, challenges, and growth in the spotlight. Her candid discussions serve as a reminder of the importance of supporting and empowering individuals in the entertainment world, especially in addressing issues of sexualization and exploitation.
