Keira Knightley Recalls Being “Stalked by Men” After ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ Success
Keira Knightley recently reflected on the challenges she faced following her breakthrough role as Elizabeth Swann in Pirates of the Caribbean. Cast at just 17, the franchise catapulted her to global fame but came with significant personal costs. Knightley revealed that her rise was marked by intense public and media scrutiny, including harsh commentary on her weight and unfounded accusations of having an eating disorder. This “public shaming” left lasting emotional scars, which she described as a “confused” chapter of her life.
The actress shared how these experiences led to a mental breakdown at age 22. Despite the immense success of the franchise, which she acknowledged as pivotal in opening doors to Oscar-nominated roles in Pride and Prejudice and The Imitation Game, Knightley struggled with the toll it took on her mental health and privacy. She recalled instances of being questioned insensitively about others’ struggles with eating disorders, showcasing the lack of empathy in the media during that era.
Knightley credited her resilience to a strong support system of family, friends, and partners. Over time, she chose to pivot toward smaller, creatively fulfilling projects, seeking to reclaim control over her career and personal life.
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