There's no film franchise quite as beloved as Star Wars. The epic space opera has been passed down across generations, with the fandom currently in the midst of its third main trilogy. The franchise has been historically focused on the Skywalker family line, which began when Anakin and Padme had twins with Leia and Luke. The latter is played famously by actor Mark Hamill, although it turns out he's never actually met his onscreen mother-- Natalie Portman. When Star Wars' official Twitter wished the Oscar winning actress a Happy Birthday, Hamill responded with a short and hilarious Tweet.
It looks like the galaxy far, far away is bigger than we thought. While it seems like everyone knows everyone in Hollywood, somehow (per his Tweet),Mark Hamill and Natalie Portman have never crossed paths--despite being Star Wars royalty. What would Padme think about it?
While Mark Hamill starred in the original trilogy of Star Wars films (and The Last Jedi), the prequel trilogy revolved around Luke's parents, Anakin Skywalker and Padme Amidala. We saw the softer side of Darth Vader, and the tragic end that their forbidden love ultimately brought. While the prequel trilogy is generally referred to negatively from fans and cinephiles alike, Natalie Portman played a badass diplomat and fighter, whose final moments saw the original trilogy's heroes being born.
It's a little surprising that Mark Hamill and Natalie Portman never met throughout the filming, release, and advertising of the prequel trilogy. While Hamill had nothing to do with those movies, he has a continued relationship and respect with George Lucas, who directed both the original and prequels. He certainly attended the films' premieres, although it looks like he never actually crossed paths with Natalie Portman at the time. It seems like that would have made for a great photo opportunity, but Mark never actually met Padme. Bummer.
In the decade and change since Revenge of the Sith was released, Natalie Portman has distanced herself from the Star Wars franchise. She doesn't haven an interest in the new films, something echoes Portman's current thoughts on the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The actress is always moving forward, and therefore doesn't hold her legacy to the fans quite as preciously as Mark Hamill.
It should be interesting to see how Mark Hamill's place in the Star Wars universe changes in the wake of The Last Jedi. While Luke seems to have perished after his Force Projection, perhaps he could return as a Force Ghost in Episode IX. Given Carrie Fisher's passing, there may be a space for an original hero to return for the upcoming sequel.
Solo: A Star Wars Story is in theaters now. Be sure to check out our 2018 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.
