Keira Knightley was born into a family of actors and playwrights; her mother is Sharman Macdonald, a playwright, and her father is Will Knightley, a stage actor.
She requested an agent at the age of three, showing a strong interest in acting from a very young age.
Knightley was diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of six, but she overcame the condition by working hard to improve her reading skills.
She gained international fame with her role as Elizabeth Swann in the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' film series, starting with 'The Curse of the Black Pearl' in 2003.
Knightley was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet in the 2005 adaptation of 'Pride & Prejudice.'
She performed most of her own stunts in the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' films, showcasing her physicality and dedication to her roles.
Keira Knightley is known for her love of period dramas, starring in films like 'Atonement,' 'Anna Karenina,' and 'The Duchess.'
She turned down the role of Eliza Doolittle in a planned remake of 'My Fair Lady,' a role that eventually went to another actress when the project was shelved.
Knightley has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in the film industry, often speaking out about the challenges faced by women in Hollywood.
She married musician James Righton in 2013, and the couple has two daughters together.
Keira Knightley has worked with several acclaimed directors, including Joe Wright, with whom she has collaborated on multiple films.
She was awarded an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in 2018 for her services to drama and charity.
Knightley is known for her distinctive fashion sense and has been the face of several high-profile fashion campaigns, including for Chanel.
She took a break from acting after the birth of her first child but returned to the screen with a renewed focus on projects that align with her values.
Keira Knightley has a passion for music and plays several instruments, including the guitar and piano, which she learned for her role in 'Begin Again.'