Natalie Portman recently shared her thoughts on life after her divorce from Benjamin Millepied during an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. The acclaimed actress discussed her new limited series, Lady in the Lake, while also reflecting on her personal journey following the end of her marriage.

In a heartfelt moment, Portman recounted a significant encounter she had with Rihanna during Paris Fashion Week. She described meeting the pop icon as a “formative moment,” noting, “Every woman going through a divorce should get to have Rihanna say to her that she’s a bad [expletive].” Portman emphasized how empowering it was to hear those words, expressing that it was precisely what she needed during a challenging time.

This candid moment marked Portman’s first public comment regarding her divorce since finalizing the split in March. The couple, who married in 2012, share two children: son Aleph and daughter Amalia. Their divorce came after over a decade together, with reports surfacing about Millepied’s alleged affair, which Portman previously described as “terrible.” In an interview with Vanity Fair, she expressed her reluctance to contribute to the narrative surrounding their separation.

Portman’s reflections highlight not only the struggles of navigating life after a significant relationship but also the importance of supportive connections and moments of empowerment. As she moves forward in her career and personal life, the actress showcases resilience and strength, reminding her fans that even amidst challenges, there are opportunities for growth and renewal.