Keira Knightley has revealed that she underwent years of therapy following the ‘trauma’ she experienced while starring in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise. Knightley, known for her roles in “Pride & Prejudice,” “Love Actually,” and “Bend It Like Beckham,” rose to international fame at just 17 years old after portraying Elizabeth Swann in the Disney series alongside Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom. While the role catapulted her to stardom, it also marked a tumultuous period in her life.
In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar UK, Knightley described her early fame as ‘pretty horrific.’ The public scrutiny and expectations, especially regarding her appearance and femininity, were overwhelming for the young actress. She recounted feeling like an object of lust and struggled with the sudden and extreme attention. The pressure and lack of acting training led her to focus on the negative aspects of her career, making her feel worthless.
Following her roles in “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “Love Actually,” Knightley decided to take a break from acting. This hiatus was crucial for her mental health, as she needed to distance herself from the intense scrutiny of big-budget films and the accompanying fame. During this time, she sought therapy to cope with the pressures and to understand her self-worth beyond her public image.
Knightley has since shifted her focus away from major Hollywood productions, opting for projects that offer a healthier balance between her professional and personal life. She told The Telegraph that the fame from such films was too much for her to handle. Reflecting on her journey, Knightley shared that she wouldn’t change her past because it led her to a place where she now enjoys her career and a more manageable level of fame.
Her story highlights the often unseen struggles that accompany early success and public adoration. Knightley’s candidness about her mental health journey provides insight into the realities of fame and the importance of seeking help and finding balance.
