Natalie Portman Expresses Shock Over Novel Allegedly Based on Her Life

Natalie Portman is reportedly upset by the upcoming release of Life of M, a novel by Rachel Cusk that features a self-absorbed, detached movie star named M, widely believed to be inspired by Portman. The book, set to be published later this month, includes numerous hints linking the character to Portman, such as the city of residence, career milestones, and personal history. Despite these parallels, Portman and Cusk are not close friends, having met only a few times in Paris, where both live.

Portman, who is currently expecting her third child with French producer and musician Tangui Destable, is said to be "shocked" and views the book as a low blow, especially since the character M is portrayed as a diva, which Portman disputes, describing herself as a private person and a quiet book lover. Sources close to Portman believe the novel is part of a cynical marketing campaign exploiting a fabricated rift between the two women, which contradicts Portman’s belief in female solidarity.

The novel draws specific parallels to Portman’s life, including her early acting career starting at age 11 in the film Leon, her association with Christian Dior campaigns, and her Oscar-winning role in Black Swan. However, some details, such as a childhood sexual assault experienced by M, do not align with Portman’s known biography. The book portrays M as emotionally distant and obsessed with public perception, a characterization that some insiders say does not reflect Portman’s true personality.

Rachel Cusk has not commented on the allegations, and the question of whether M is based on Portman remains open. Cusk has previously faced criticism for blurring the lines between her life and fiction. Both Portman and Cusk declined to respond to requests for comment from the Daily Mail. The controversy adds a complex layer to Portman’s personal life as she prepares for motherhood.