A Disney breakout star reflects on the eating disorder and PTSD she suffered while on a blockbuster movie set

Keira Knightley’s journey to fame, particularly through her role in Pirates of the Caribbean, has been both rewarding and tumultuous. At just 17, she skyrocketed to global stardom as Elizabeth Swann, but with that fame came the intense scrutiny that often accompanies young stars. Knightley recently opened up about how the pressure of being in the spotlight at such a young age, coupled with media speculation about her body, took a toll on her. The press frequently speculated about her weight, with many wrongly assuming she had an eating disorder, a narrative that Knightley was forced to mentally block out. In a recent interview with The Times, she revealed that she couldn’t remember much from that time, but certain memories would resurface in her body as physical reactions to the public shaming.

Despite this challenging experience, Knightley found a silver lining. Her role in Pirates of the Caribbean helped propel her career forward, opening doors to more prestigious roles, including her Oscar-nominated performances in Pride and Prejudice (2005) and The Imitation Game (2014). Knightley has since become a respected actress in both film and theater, with standout roles in films like Atonement, Anna Karenina, and A Dangerous Method. On stage, she’s earned acclaim for her performances in The Misanthrope, The Children’s Hour, and Therese Raquin.

After taking time off to focus on her family, Knightley is making a major return to the screen with Black Doves, a thrilling new series in which she plays Helen Webb, an undercover spy seeking revenge for her lover’s murder. The series will be released on December 5, marking an exciting new chapter in Knightley’s career, as she continues to captivate audiences with her talent and resilience.