Natalie Portman Reveals She and Britney Spears Were Once Understudies for the Same Role

Despite being in the same production, Natalie clarified that they didn't actually meet during that time.

During an appearance on 'Live' with Kelly and Mark while promoting her latest movie 'May December', Natalie Portman surprised everyone by revealing an unexpected connection she shares with Britney Spears from their early days in the entertainment industry. The 42-year-old Oscar-winning actress disclosed that both she and Britney were understudies for the same role in the Off-Broadway musical 'New Ruthless' in 1992, backing up child star Laura Bell Bundy.

Despite being in the same production, Natalie clarified that they didn't actually meet during that time. She explained that she replaced Britney in the role but was aware of their connection, saying, "So we actually didn't meet but we, like, knew of each other. Like I knew I was taking over for her."

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'New Ruthless' garnered positive reviews during its run in New York City, featuring an all-female cast. Although Portman's career took off later with her breakout role in 'Leon' in 1994, she has since become an acclaimed actress, appearing in around 70 films over three decades. Her notable performances in movies like 'Black Swan', 'Closer', 'Thor', 'V for Vendetta', and 'The Other Boleyn Girl' have earned her an Academy Award and two Golden Globes, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood's most respected talents.

Key Points: 

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1. Natalie Portman shared an unexpected connection with Britney Spears during an appearance on 'Live' with Kelly and Mark while promoting her new film 'May December,' revealing that they both started as understudies in the same role during their childhood rise to fame.

2. Both Natalie and Britney were understudies for child star Laura Bell Bundy in the Off-Broadway musical 'New Ruthless' in 1992, marking a surprising early link in their careers.

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3. Despite sharing the same role, Natalie mentioned that they never met in person during that time since she took over the part after Britney's stint. Natalie stated, "So we actually didn't meet but we, like, knew of each other. Like I knew I was taking over for her."

4. 'New Ruthless,' featuring an all-female cast, received acclaim during its run from March 1992 to January 1993 in New York City, marking Natalie's initial foray into the entertainment industry.

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5. While Natalie began her career with 'New Ruthless,' her breakthrough to stardom occurred a few years later, following her standout performance as Mathilda in the action-thriller 'Leon' in 1994.

6. Over three decades, Natalie has established herself as a prominent and beloved actress, appearing in an impressive 70 films, showcasing her talent across various genres and roles.

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7. Some of Natalie's notable films include 'Black Swan,' 'Closer,' 'Thor,' 'V for Vendetta,' 'The Other Boleyn Girl,' among others, contributing to her widespread recognition and acclaim.

8. Her exceptional performances have earned Natalie accolades, including an Academy Award and two Golden Globes, solidifying her place as one of the most esteemed actresses of her generation.

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9. Despite not crossing paths during their shared understudy role, the connection between Natalie Portman and Britney Spears during their early careers presents an intriguing link between two eventual icons in the entertainment industry.

10. Natalie's journey from her understudy role to her illustrious career showcases her talent, dedication, and versatility as an actress, cementing her as a celebrated figure in Hollywood.

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(With Agency Inputs)

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