Being multilingual can come in handy, especially if you’re someone who travels a lot. So, it makes sense that many famous actors and athletes have picked up other languages over time. However, some celebrities might surprise you with just how many languages they can speak! For example, did you know that Natalie Portman knows at least six languages? And that’s nothing compared to Tom Hiddleston’s nine!
There are many different reasons someone might choose to learn a new language. Work, school, travel, relationships, or personal improvement are all excellent motivators. Public figures often have an additional incentive for wanting to communicate in another tongue: they have fans all over the world! Here are some of our favorite multilingual celebrities.
1. Jack Black
Beloved comedian Jack Black didn’t start speaking multiple languages until he was an adult. Insider tells us that he taught himself French and Spanish.
2. Sandra Oh
“Grey’s Anatomy” alum Sandra Oh grew up in a bilingual household, speaking Korean and English with her family. Later, she learned to speak French in school, according to Insider. She also picked up Spanish just for fun!
3. Kobe Bryant
Late NBA superstar Kobe Bryant learned to speak Italian by spending part of his childhood in Italy, Nicki Swift tells us. Later, he picked up Spanish from his wife, Vanessa, and even learned a little Chinese.
4. Natalie Portman
“Thor: Love and Thunder” and “Star Wars” star Natalie Portman is something of a whiz kid when it comes to learning languages. According to TheThings, Portman speaks Hebrew, French, German, and Spanish at different fluency levels. She also understands some Arabic and has studied Japanese!
5. Tom Hiddleston
Probably best known for his role as trickster god Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Tom Hiddleston speaks a wildly impressive number of languages. According to TheThings, these include: Spanish, Italian, French, Greek, Russian, Latin, German, Korean, and Mandarin Chinese.
It’s inspiring to see so many celebrities who have put in the effort to learn other languages. Although it takes a lot of work, being able to communicate in another tongue is one of the most rewarding endeavors in the world!
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