| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Keira Christina Knightley |
| Occupation | Actress, Producer |
| Date of Birth | March 26, 1985 |
| Birth Place | Teddington, London |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Net Worth (2024) | $80 million |
| Source of Income | Acting, Brand Endorsements |
| Height | 5 ft 7 in (170 cm) |
| Parents | Will Knightley (father), Sharman Macdonald (mother) |
| Spouse | James Righton (married 2013) |
| Children | Edie, Delilah |
| Education | Esher College |
| Current Age | 39 years |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Social Profiles | |
| Awards | OBE, Academy Award nomination, Golden Globe nominations |
| Notable Works | "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Pride & Prejudice," "Atonement," "Official Secrets" |
| Partner | Chanel (Brand Ambassador since 2007) |
Early Life and Background
Keira Christina Knightley was born on 26 March 1985 in Teddington, London. She was born into a family deeply entrenched in the performing arts; her father, Will Knightley, is a stage actor, and her mother, Sharman Macdonald, is a playwright. This artistic environment nurtured Keira's passion for acting from a young age. Intriguingly, Keira was diagnosed with dyslexia at six but overcame the learning disability by focusing on her passion for acting, an endeavor that required her to memorize lines and scripts meticulously.
Breakthrough and Initial Success
Knightley's breakthrough came in 2002 with her role in "Bend It Like Beckham", which grossed over $76 million worldwide, a significant return on its $6 million budget. This film showcased her ability to bring depth and relatability to her characters, establishing her as a promising young talent in Hollywood. Following this success, she starred in "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" (2003) alongside Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom, which became a global phenomenon, grossing $654 million worldwide. This role catapulted her to international stardom and solidified her status as a leading actress.
Diverse Roles and Critical Acclaim
Knightley has consistently chosen diverse roles that challenge her acting abilities. In 2005, she starred in "Pride & Prejudice" as Elizabeth Bennet, a performance that earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film was both a critical and commercial success, grossing $121 million worldwide. Her portrayal of Bennet was praised for its modernity and emotional depth, distinguishing it from previous adaptations of the classic novel.
Expanding Horizons
In 2007, Knightley starred in "Atonement", a film adaptation of Ian McEwan's novel, which earned her a second Golden Globe nomination. The film grossed $130 million globally and was lauded for its stunning cinematography and powerful performances. Knightley's role as Cecilia Tallis showcased her ability to convey complex emotions and further solidified her reputation as a versatile actress.
Financial Milestones and Earnings
Knightley's financial success has been equally impressive. By 2008, she was one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood, earning an estimated $32 million between June 2007 and June 2008, according to Forbes. Her role in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise significantly contributed to her earnings, with the films collectively grossing over $4.5 billion worldwide.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Knightley's influence extends beyond the silver screen. In 2018, she was appointed an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) at Buckingham Palace for her services to drama and charity. She is an outspoken advocate for various causes, including Amnesty International and Women's Aid, and has used her platform to raise awareness about domestic violence and gender equality.
Personal Life and Continued Success
In 2013, Knightley married musician James Righton in a private ceremony in the South of France. The couple has two daughters, Edie and Delilah. Despite her busy career, Knightley has managed to balance her personal and professional life, often speaking about the importance of family and the challenges of motherhood.
Recent Works and Future Projects
Knightley continues to take on challenging roles, including her performance in the 2019 film "Official Secrets", where she portrayed whistleblower Katharine Gun. The film received critical acclaim, and Knightley's performance was praised for its intensity and authenticity. She is also set to star in the upcoming "Silent Night" and "Boston Strangler", projects that promise to further showcase her range and talent.
Exclusive Insights
One lesser-known fact about Knightley is her involvement in the development of scripts and production. She has expressed interest in moving behind the camera and has been quietly working on several projects as a producer. Additionally, she has a keen interest in fashion, having collaborated with Chanel as a brand ambassador since 2007, a partnership that has reportedly earned her over $1 million annually.
Legacy and Impact
Keira Knightley's career is a testament to her talent, versatility, and dedication. From her early struggles with dyslexia to her rise as one of Hollywood's most respected actresses, she has continually pushed the boundaries of her craft. Her financial success, coupled with her philanthropic efforts, underscores her impact both within and outside the film industry. As she continues to evolve as an artist and advocate, Knightley's legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to her passions.
FAQS
Why did Keira Knightley stop acting?
Keira Knightley has not officially stopped acting but has taken breaks to focus on her personal life, including her marriage and raising her children. She continues to take on selective projects that interest her.
Why is Keira Knightley so famous?
Keira Knightley is famous for her roles in successful films like "Bend It Like Beckham" and the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series, as well as her critically acclaimed performances in "Pride & Prejudice" and "Atonement." Her versatility and talent have garnered her widespread recognition.
Is Keira Knightley still married?
Yes, Keira Knightley is still married to musician James Righton. They married in 2013 and have two daughters together.
How old was Keira Knightley when she was in the Pirates of the Caribbean?
Keira Knightley was 18 years old when she starred in "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl," which was released in 2003.
Does Keira Knightley have a disability?
Keira Knightley was diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of six. She has spoken openly about overcoming the challenges associated with dyslexia through her dedication to acting.
What has Keira Knightley done recently?
Recently, Keira Knightley starred in the 2019 film "Official Secrets" and is set to appear in upcoming projects like "Silent Night" and "Boston Strangler." She continues to choose roles that challenge her and showcase her acting range.