Natalie Portman named 'inspiration to Jews' to win $1m Genesis Prize

Natalie Portman has been awarded this year’s $1m Genesis Prize for being a role model to “millions of young Jews around the world.”

The globally-acclaimed actress and director said she was deeply touched and humbled after being announced as the winner of the award, which comes with a $1 million (£760,000) prize fund.

The Oscar winner said that the money would go to causes which “advance women’s equality”.  

“I am proud of my Israeli roots and Jewish heritage; they are crucial parts of who I am,” Portman said. “It is such a privilege to be counted among the outstanding Laureates whom I admire so much. I express my heartfelt gratitude to the Genesis Prize Foundation, and look forward to using the global platform it provides to make a difference in the lives of women in Israel and beyond.”