Natalie Portman Admits br 'Star Wars' Backlash Was Tough The actress became a household br name after starring as Padme Amidala br in the 'Star Wars' prequels. But her work was heavily criticized br by many Star Wars fans. It was tough for Portman to take. Natalie Portman, to 'Empire' The 'Black Swan' star was br a teen when the first of the prequel br trilogy movies came out in 1999. Her young age made it difficult for her to "understand" the backlash. Natalie Portman, to 'Empire' However, Portman noted that br some fans have "re-evaluated' br their initial reaction to the films.