The Internet Is Losing Its Mind Over Natalie Portman’s Star Wars Set Photos—Here’s Why Fans Are Obsessed

In a nostalgic moment for Star Wars fans, behind-the-scenes photos of Natalie Portman on the set of Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones have gone viral on social media, with a post on the platform X (formerly Twitter) amassing nearly six million views. The photos showcase Portman in her iconic role as Padmé Amidala, reigniting fan admiration for both her performance and timeless beauty.

Natalie Portman on the set of ‘Star Wars: Attack of the Clones’, 2001. pic.twitter.com/XbOeotdzeD

— cinesthetic. (@TheCinesthetic) April 7, 2024

The post quickly sparked a flurry of reactions from fans, with many expressing their admiration for the actress and her character. One user commented, “She was exploding with hotness in this movie I understand you Anakin, I would also break my vows for this woman,” referencing the character Anakin Skywalker’s forbidden love for Padmé. Another joked, “I woulda become Darth Vader if I lost her too.” A third user added, “You can understand why the guy wanted to blow up the entire universe when this one died,” while another humorously wrote, “So cute I’d let her ruin my life.”

A Complicated Legacy

While many are celebrating the resurgence of these photos and Portman’s impact on the Star Wars prequel trilogy, the reception to her performance hasn’t always been so positive. In a candid interview with the New York Magazine in 2014, Portman revealed that her career took a hit after starring in the Star Wars prequels. “Everyone thought I was a horrible actress,” she said, explaining how the negative critical reception to the trilogy affected her opportunities in Hollywood.

Portman’s struggles post-Star Wars were also highlighted in an article by SlashFilm, which noted that directors were hesitant to cast her. Despite the immense popularity of the Star Wars franchise, Portman said she faced industry skepticism, which she credited to the backlash surrounding the prequels.

From Setbacks to Stardom

However, Portman’s resilience and undeniable talent eventually silenced her critics. She reinvented her career with a series of critically acclaimed roles, earning three Academy Award nominations. Her most notable triumph came in 2011, when she won the Oscar for Best Actress for her transformative performance in Darren Aronofsky’s Black Swan.

Reflecting on her career journey in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Portman said, “There’s a perception sometimes that an actor is only as good as their last film. I had to prove myself again, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.”

A Lasting Impact on Star Wars Fans

The viral reaction to these set photos underscores the enduring appeal of Portman’s portrayal of Padmé Amidala, a character beloved for her intelligence, grace, and strength. Though the prequel trilogy was initially divisive among fans, it has since found renewed appreciation in recent years, with younger audiences embracing its unique vision of the galaxy far, far away.

As fan nostalgia brings these iconic Star Wars moments back into the spotlight, it’s clear that Natalie Portman’s contributions to the franchise remain significant. From her elegant costumes to her nuanced portrayal of Padmé, she has left an indelible mark on the beloved saga.