Natalie Portman Angered by Novel Allegedly Based on Her as Obsessive Diva

Natalie Portman, known for her love of books, is reportedly upset over a new novel by Canadian-British author Rachel Cusk, who was once considered a close friend. Both women live in Paris, and Portman had previously featured Cusk's books in her Instagram book club, Nat's Book Club, in 2021 and 2024, even hosting live sessions together. However, Cusk's upcoming book, Life Of M, set for release at the end of August, appears to portray a character named M, a self-absorbed and out-of-touch actress, widely believed by Portman's acquaintances to be based on Portman herself.

Sources close to Portman told the Daily Mail that the book has "infuriated" her, calling it a "vile act." They emphasized that the character does not resemble Portman, who is described as a quiet bookworm protective of her privacy and a strong believer in female empowerment and sisterhood. Portman is currently focusing on her pregnancy with French music producer partner Tangy Destable, expecting their first child together, and reportedly does not intend to publicly respond to the book.

Others from Portman's circle defended her, highlighting her kindness and warmth, while some acknowledged that Portman can be perceived as tough and perfectionist, traits somewhat reflected in the fictional M. The Daily Mail obtained an early copy of the book, noting clear parallels between M and Portman, including starting their careers as child actors, working with older male co-stars that led to protective actions by their mothers, starring in ballet-related films, and involvement in similar campaigns.

The character M is depicted as self-centered, craving a normal life but easily irritated by others, demanding special treatment, and unable to be honest even with close people. Some speculate the controversy might be a deliberate publicity stunt by the two authors, but Portman's insider insists they are not close friends and that Portman was not involved in the book's creation. Neither Portman nor Cusk has publicly commented on the matter yet.