Contact

Keira Knightley

Acclaimed Actress
British Actress / Film Star / Oscar Nominee
Born: March 26, 1985 | Nationality: British
Actress Producer
Professional Insight: Keira Knightley is one of Britain's most successful actresses, known for her period drama roles and Oscar-nominated performances.

Early Life and Career

1Childhood and Education
Born in London to actor parents, Knightley began acting at age 6.
Born in London to actor parents, Knightley began acting at age 6.
2Breakthrough Role
Her breakthrough came with Bend It Like Beckham (2002).
Her breakthrough came with Bend It Like Beckham (2002).
3International Fame
She gained worldwide recognition as Elizabeth Swann in Pirates of the Caribbean.
She gained worldwide recognition as Elizabeth Swann in Pirates of the Caribbean.
Career Insight: Knightley often chooses challenging roles that showcase her dramatic range beyond her early "period piece" typecasting.

Major Film Roles

1Pride and Prejudice (2005)
Her portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet earned her first Oscar nomination.
Her portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet earned her first Oscar nomination.
2Atonement (2007)
Played Cecilia Tallis in this acclaimed adaptation of Ian McEwan's novel.
Played Cecilia Tallis in this acclaimed adaptation of Ian McEwan's novel.
3Anna Karenina (2012)
Starred in Joe Wright's stylized adaptation of Tolstoy's classic.
Starred in Joe Wright's stylized adaptation of Tolstoy's classic.

Awards and Recognition

1Academy Award Nominations
Nominated for Best Actress for Pride and Prejudice (2005).
Nominated for Best Actress for Pride and Prejudice (2005).
2BAFTA Awards
Won Rising Star Award in 2008.
Won Rising Star Award in 2008.
3Empire Awards
Won Best Actress for Atonement (2008).
Won Best Actress for Atonement (2008).
4Order of the British Empire
Appointed OBE in 2018 for services to drama and charity.
Appointed OBE in 2018 for services to drama and charity.
Professional Insight: Knightley has been selective with roles, focusing on quality projects rather than quantity, which has maintained her prestige in the industry.