Keira Knightley has opened up about her complex relationship with the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, which she describes as both a significant source of success and personal struggle.

Although the franchise launched her career when she was just 18, it also exposed her to intense public scrutiny and criticism.

Knightley faced rampant speculation about her health, particularly regarding rumors of an eating disorder, which she has vehemently denied.

She characterized this media attention as a form of public shaming, which negatively impacted her mental health.

The pressures of fame culminated in a mental breakdown at age 22, leading her to take a year off from acting to recover from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Reflecting on her experiences, Knightley described the franchise as a 'confused place' in her mind, highlighting the paradox of its commercial success against her personal challenges.

Due to the demanding nature of franchise filmmaking, including long hours and a lack of creative control, Knightley has decided not to return to any future Pirates of the Caribbean films.

After stepping back from acting to focus on her family, Knightley is set to return in the Netflix series Black Doves, premiering on December 5, 2024.

In Black Doves, she plays a spy navigating danger after her lover is assassinated, marking a significant return to the screen.

Knightley credits her supportive family and friends, including her husband James Righton, for helping her cope with the challenges of fame and public scrutiny.

In a recent interview, she discussed the lasting effects of public shaming on her psyche and the importance of mental health awareness.

Despite the franchise's success, which generated $4.5 billion for Disney, Knightley has chosen to prioritize her well-being and family commitments over returning to blockbuster roles.