Natalie Portman and Benjamin Millepied finalized their divorce last February, after a period full of challenges and changes. Their split last summer, accompanied by rumors that he was having an affair with a French activist, found Portman managing her new reality. Despite the difficulties, Portman continued to appear in public with courage.

One of the most defining moments of this phase in the actress’ life was her accidental first meeting with Rihanna at a fashion show. The video, in which we see them hugging, went “viral” and became a point of reference. In an appearance on the Today Show to promote her new series Lady in the Lake, Portman shared how important this meeting was to her.

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“It was a great ‘confidence boost’. Really, it was just what I needed at that point in my life. I am forever grateful and love her”Portman said, acknowledging the huge positive impact Rihanna’s support has had.

Rihanna, with her directness, had called Portman out “Hollywood’s hottest bitch”, a comment that demonstrated the power of solidarity and mutual admiration between women. This boost of confidence came at just the right time, giving Portman the boost she needed to go on with her life.

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