Natalie Portman described her safety while working as a child actor as "an accident of luck" during a conversation with Varietys Awards Circuit Podcast. Despite her own overall positive experience, the Oscar-winning actress cautioned against kids entering the entertainment business.
She advised against young people pursuing this career, clarifying that she meant during childhood. Portman began her professional acting career at 13 in the film "Leon: The Professional," and credited her parents for ensuring her well-being in the industry.
"I consider myself lucky to have had overprotective but wonderful parents who ensured my safety," she said. "I've heard too many horror stories to believe that children should be involved in such risks. Nevertheless, the ongoing conversations about this issue have increased awareness and caution among people."
"However, my belief remains that children should not be employed," she said. "I believe children should be allowed time to play and focus on their education."
Portman currently stars with Julianne Moore in the buzzy drama "May December."