Natalie Portman Embraces Privacy and Culture in Paris After Leaving Los Angeles

Natalie Portman Embraces Privacy and Culture in Paris After Leaving Los Angeles

Natalie Portman has bid farewell to Los Angeles, finding solace in her reclusive lifestyle in Paris with her two children. The acclaimed actress, known for her roles in films like Black Swan, is relishing a quieter life far from the Hollywood limelight.

In a recent interview with Net-a-Porter, Portman expressed her appreciation for the privacy that Paris affords her. She stated, ‘They’re very good at privacy here.’ This revelation comes shortly after her public divorce from French choreographer Benjamin Millepied, highlighting her desire for a peaceful environment amid personal turmoil.

Life in the City of Light

Portman moved back to Paris even before her divorce finalized, choosing to raise her children—Aleph, aged 13, and Amalia, aged 8—in a city that she believes offers a unique social fabric. Reflecting on her experience, she remarked, ‘All the kids that come to my house are, like, ‘bonjour Madame’ – and give me the bise [cheek-to-cheek kiss].’ Her observations underline the cultural differences she has embraced, particularly in terms of social etiquette.

Culture and Connection

The actress noted that even when guests leave her home, they actively seek her out to express their gratitude. ‘Thank you for having me,’ is a common phrase she hears, demonstrating the polite social norms that characterize French culture.

The Portman-Millepied family previously relocated to Paris in 2014 after Millepied took on the role of director for the Paris Opera Ballet. However, they returned to Los Angeles in 2016, which sparked a noteworthy comparison between the two cities. In a light-hearted chat with Jimmy Kimmel, Portman shared her initial impressions of L.A., noting that ‘everyone seemed really friendly,’ in contrast to Parisian coolness.

Cultural Reflections

She elaborated on the nuanced behavioral codes that differentiate daily life in Paris from that in Los Angeles. Portman suggested that the assumption that Western cultures are homogeneous is misleading. ‘It’s not true,’ she said, emphasizing that the cultural dynamics are distinct both profoundly and superficially.

Portman revealed her evolving perception of social interactions, explaining, ‘I find the people here are actually incredibly friendly – you just have to know how to interact, so that we’re not the ones being rude.’ This insight sheds light on her adjustment to social norms and the warmth that she has experienced despite initial impressions.

The Allure of Parisian Life

Enjoying the rich cultural scene of the City of Light is another significant aspect of Portman’s life in Paris. She shared her enthusiasm for the diverse range of experiences available, saying, ‘Even when it’s cold and gray, there’s always some incredible exhibit or concert or dinner party or writers in town; something fascinating and stimulating happening.’ This enthusiasm illustrates her genuine appreciation for Paris’s vibrant arts and cultural offerings.

Portman also reflected on the frequent opportunities for travel that accompany her life in France, noting that those experiences are ‘so clutch’ for her creativity and personal growth.

A New Chapter

As she navigates this new chapter in her life, Portman’s choice to stay in Paris after her marriage dissolution highlights her commitment to her children’s upbringing. The privacy and cultural richness of Paris not only provide her with a refuge but also enable her to cultivate a meaningful family life.

The actress continues to adapt, absorbing the cultural tapestries that define her surroundings. Through her journey, she exemplifies the importance of embracing change and finding joy in new beginnings. As she develops deeper connections in her Parisian community, fans and admirers can look forward to the continued evolution of this talented actress in a city that has captured her heart.