The top facts about Keira Knightley

How much do you know about Keira Knightley?

Keira has enjoyed a career that has taken her from child actor to one of Britain’s most respected and bankable film stars.

Known for roles in Pirates of the Caribbean, Pride and Prejudice and Atonement, she has balanced blockbuster success with critically acclaimed performances.

Keira is also a wife, mother and advocate for women’s rights.

Here are 5 interesting facts you never knew about Keira Knightley...

Born into an acting family

Keira Knightley was born on March 26, 1985, in Teddington, London, to actor parents Will Knightley and Sharman Macdonald. She has an older brother, Caleb.

Growing up surrounded by the industry helped shape her ambitions early on.

In her personal life, she is married to musician James Righton, and the couple share two daughters.

Early struggles with dyslexia

As a child, Keira was diagnosed with dyslexia, something she has spoken about in interviews.

With support from her family, she worked hard at school and has credited acting scripts with helping improve her reading skills.

Star Wars cameo at 14

One of Knightley’s earliest film roles was as Sabé, Queen Amidala’s decoy, in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace.

Due to her resemblance to Natalie Portman, many viewers struggled to tell them apart on screen.

Breakthrough with Bend It Like Beckham

Her big break came in 2002 as Juliette Paxton with Bend It Like Beckham, a hit British film that brought her widespread attention.

The movie’s success helped launch her international career and introduced her to a global audience.

Pirates made her a global star

Knightley’s role as Elizabeth Swann in Pirates of the Caribbean turned her into a Hollywood star.

Starring alongside Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom, the franchise became a massive global success and cemented her place in blockbuster cinema.