Academy Award-winning actress Natalie Portman, who has lived in Paris with her two children since her divorce, opens up about why she prefers the French capital over Los Angeles. In an exclusive interview with Net-a-Porter, the May December star, 43, shares her love for Parisian life and the cultural differences that make living in France so unique.
Natalie Portman on Why She Loves Living in Paris: A Sense of Privacy and Cultural Richness
Portman explains that one of the key reasons she enjoys life in Paris is the strong sense of privacy and respect for personal boundaries. After living in Paris for several years, Portman has grown to appreciate how the French handle privacy, a stark contrast to the American culture she grew up with in Long Island, New York.
“They’re very good at privacy here,” Portman said. “I feel like the biggest compliment is ‘elle est très discrète’ [‘she is very discreet’].”
This respect for privacy has allowed Portman to navigate her public life with greater ease, especially after her highly publicized divorce from her husband of 11 years, Benjamin Millepied. She shares two children with Millepied, Aleph, 13, and Amalia, 8, and is committed to providing them with a life of stability and cultural enrichment.
Raising Kids in Paris: A Focus on Manners and Politeness
Portman highlights the cultural differences she’s noticed between the U.S. and France, particularly when it comes to social interactions and etiquette. “All the kids that come to my house are, like, ‘Bonjour Madame,’ and give me the bise [cheek-to-cheek kiss],” she shared. “And before they leave, they are, like, ‘Thank you for having me,’ and if I’m not nearby, they’ll come and find me to say it.” These small gestures reflect the French emphasis on politeness, and Portman values how they impact her children’s upbringing.
Paris as a Cultural Haven: Exhibits, Concerts, and Constant Stimulation
Portman also notes the abundance of cultural experiences available in Paris, even in the colder, grayer months. “There’s always some incredible exhibit or concert or dinner party or writers in town — something fascinating and stimulating happening,” she explains. For Portman, Paris offers endless opportunities for personal and professional growth, with a vibrant cultural scene that never lacks excitement.
“Frequent vacations are so clutch!” she adds, showing her appreciation for the European lifestyle.
Natalie Portman’s Divorce and Focus on Co-Parenting
Portman filed for divorce from Benjamin Millepied in July 2023, and the divorce was finalized in February 2024. Despite their split, Portman and Millepied remain dedicated to co-parenting their children amicably. A source close to the actress revealed, “She and Ben really love their kids and are equally focused on being the best co-parents they can be. Nothing is more important.”
Portman’s focus on providing a stable and nurturing environment for her children, even amid life changes, highlights her commitment to their well-being.
