Being devoted parents to their two children remains the top priority for Natalie Portman and Benjamin Millepied, as per a recent report.
Speculations about a potential divorce have circulated for months, and a representative for Portman confirmed to PEOPLE on Friday that the couple discreetly filed for divorce approximately eight months ago, with the finalization taking place last month in France. Subsequently, an inside source revealed that the actress known for her role in “Black Swan” and her ex-husband, a director/choreographer, are both deeply committed to co-parenting their children, 12-year-old Aleph and 7-year-old Amalia.
Co-Parenting
A close friend of the former couple shared with PEOPLE, “Her main focus has been ensuring a seamless transition for her kids. Both she and Ben have a profound love for their children and are equally dedicated to excelling as co-parents. There is nothing more significant than that.”
This sentiment has already been demonstrated in action. Recently, the family of four was spotted together on a rare public outing in Los Angeles, as captured by the Daily Mail. Despite Portman not wearing her ring during the outing, the atmosphere appeared amicable between her and Millepied, showcasing their unwavering dedication to their children amidst the evolution of their relationship.
Supportive Circle
Navigating the complexities of separation was not without its challenges for Portman and her former French partner, who was linked to rumors of an affair with climate activist Camille Étienne last June. However, sources close to the situation revealed that friends played a crucial role in assisting the Academy Award-winning actress during the divorce proceedings.
“While the initial phase was undeniably difficult for her, her circle of friends provided unwavering support and helped her navigate through the toughest moments,” disclosed an insider. “Natalie has emerged from a particularly trying and painful period with newfound strength, finding solace and happiness in her family, friends, and professional endeavors.”
Respite from Acting
A seasoned performer, Natalie Portman has often turned to acting as a form of solace during challenging periods in her life, occasionally taking breaks to prioritize personal matters. Following the birth of her first child in 2011, she opted for a hiatus, citing the inherent demands of motherhood and the desire to cherish precious family moments.
Reflecting on this break, Portman shared with Reader’s Digest in November 2023, “When you have a child and you’re an actor, you’re compelled to take a substantial hiatus. I was visibly pregnant from the beginning! Working during pregnancy was out of the question. Consequently, I took a hiatus for a year, and then extended it to spend more time with my family, resulting in a two-year absence from acting—a truly magical period in my life.”
This interlude reignited her passion for acting, instilling in her a renewed sense of purpose and eagerness to delve back into creative pursuits. “The break not only reignited my enthusiasm but also fueled my desire to create and explore new avenues in my craft,” she emphasized.