Rachel Cusk’s ‘Life of M’ sparks controversy over Natalie Portman similarities

British author Rachel Cusk’s new novel, ‘Life of M’, has sparked significant debate within literary and Hollywood circles due to perceived similarities between the protagonist and actress Natalie Portman.

The character ‘M’ is described as a former child actress who gained fame in a film alongside an older actor, later becoming a brand icon and starring in roles reminiscent of Portman’s work in ‘Black Swan’ and ‘Vox Lux’. Some critics have characterized the book as a ‘literary assassination’ of the actress, with reports suggesting that associates of Portman have expressed anger regarding the characterization.

Cusk has declined to confirm if the character is based on a real person, stating that whether the novel is based on a specific individual ‘is not the essence’ of the work. The novel explores themes of identity, fame, and the manipulation of reality through the lens of a woman whose self-perception has been shaped by an early career in film.