Updated: April 18, 2026
Natalie Portman, the Oscar-winning actress known for her intelligence, grace, and powerful performances, captured hearts worldwide not just on screen but also through her once-fairy-tale romance with choreographer Benjamin Millepied. Their love story began on the set of Black Swan and blossomed into an 11-year marriage before ending quietly in 2024. Fans remain curious about the man who shared her life for over a decade and helped shape one of Hollywood’s most private families.
Here’s a clear, respectful look at who Natalie Portman ex husband is, how they met, and what happened next—drawn from verified reports and timelines.
Table of Contents
How Natalie Portman Met Benjamin Millepied: A Black Swan Connection
The pair first crossed paths in 2009 during production of Darren Aronofsky’s psychological thriller Black Swan. Millepied, a celebrated French dancer and choreographer, was hired to train Portman in ballet and create the film’s intricate dance sequences. Portman, already a Harvard graduate and respected actress, dove deep into the role, and their professional collaboration quickly turned personal.
- They began dating shortly after filming wrapped.
- In 2010, Portman announced their engagement and her pregnancy at the Golden Globes.
- Their son, Aleph, arrived in June 2011.
- The couple married on August 4, 2012, in a beautiful Jewish ceremony in Big Sur, California.
Millepied left a previous relationship to be with Portman, and their early years together seemed full of creativity and mutual admiration. He continued building his career while supporting hers, and they welcomed daughter Amalia in 2017.
Benjamin Millepied: Career, Background, and Life with Natalie
Born on June 10, 1977, in Bordeaux, France, Benjamin Millepied grew up in a family connected to movement and performance. His mother was a ballet dancer, and he started training young. He joined the New York City Ballet in 1995, rising to principal dancer by 2002. Later, he became a sought-after choreographer, working with major companies like the Paris Opera Ballet and the Metropolitan Opera. He even directed the 2022 film Carmen.
Key highlights of his professional life include:
- Principal dancer with New York City Ballet (2002–2011).
- Choreography credits on Black Swan, which helped launch him into mainstream fame.
- Founding his own dance initiatives and exploring filmmaking.
During their marriage, the family split time between Los Angeles and France. Portman often praised Millepied’s artistic passion, and they appeared to balance Hollywood glamour with a relatively low-key family life. Portman has always kept her children out of the spotlight, a boundary she maintains even today.
The Separation and Divorce: What We Know
In mid-2023, reports surfaced that Millepied had been involved in an extramarital affair with a climate activist. The news shocked fans, especially since the couple had just celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary the previous year. Portman was reportedly devastated but handled the situation with characteristic privacy.
Here’s a quick timeline of the end of their marriage:
- Early 2023: Rumors of trouble begin; the couple appears less together publicly.
- May–June 2023: Allegations of infidelity surface in media.
- July 2023: Portman quietly files for divorce in France.
- February 2024: The divorce is finalized in France, with joint custody arrangements for their children.
- March 2024: The news becomes public, confirmed by Portman’s representative.
The split was described as amicable in terms of logistics, though emotionally challenging. Sources noted that Portman focused on her kids and career during this period, emerging stronger with support from close friends. As of 2025–2026 updates, she has been spotted dating French musician Tanguy Destable, but she continues prioritizing family life with Aleph (now a teenager) and Amalia.
Key Facts at a Glance
Here’s a simple table summarizing the most relevant details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Benjamin Millepied |
| Birth Date & Place | June 10, 1977, Bordeaux, France |
| Profession | Dancer, Choreographer, Film Director |
| Met Natalie | On the set of Black Swan (2009) |
| Marriage Duration | 2012 – 2024 (11 years) |
| Children | Son Aleph (born 2011), Daughter Amalia (born 2017) |
| Divorce Finalized | February 2024, in France |
| Current Status (2026) | Co-parents; Portman dating Tanguy Destable |
This table captures the core public information without speculation.
Moving Forward with Grace
Divorces involving high-profile couples often attract intense scrutiny, yet Natalie Portman and Benjamin Millepied have managed the process with dignity and discretion. They share two children and a deep creative history, which likely helps them navigate co-parenting. Portman has spoken in interviews about centering her social life around her tweens, showing her commitment to stability for Aleph and Amalia.
Their story reminds us that even celebrated romances face real-life challenges. Portman’s resilience—balancing blockbuster roles, producing work, and raising grounded kids—stands out. Millepied continues his artistic pursuits, while both seem focused on healthy futures separately.
In the end, what matters most is how families evolve. Natalie Portman’s ex-husband played a significant chapter in her life, but her journey continues with quiet strength and renewed joy. Fans admire her for handling it all with class, proving that personal growth often follows even the most unexpected plot twists.