Michal Oron

Gal Gadot, born in 1985, is an Israeli actress who achieved international fame for her portrayal of Wonder Woman in the DC Extended Universe films. Before her acting career, Gadot served in the Israel Defense Forces as a combat trainer and gained local recognition after winning Miss Israel in 2004. Her early career included modeling and endorsing brands, leading to her television debut in the Israeli drama 'Bubot' and a supporting role in 'Fast & Furious'.

Her breakthrough role as Wonder Woman in 'Batman v Superman' in 2016 paved the way for her starring role in the successful 'Wonder Woman' film in 2017. She has since appeared in several other major films, some of which she co-produced. Beyond her acting career, Gadot has co-founded a film production company and launched a food brand. She is considered a national icon in Israel, though her public support for the Israeli military has drawn criticism.

Born Gal Gadot in 1985, she grew up in Rosh HaAyin, Israel, in a Jewish family environment. Her name, 'Gal', means 'wave' in Hebrew, and her surname 'Gadot' translates to 'riverbanks'. Her family has a rich history in Israel, with maternal ancestors being Holocaust survivors. Gadot's childhood involved various activities, including swimming, tennis, and dance, and she considered a career in choreography. She also experienced speech therapy to overcome a weak voice. At 11, she visited Holocaust memorial sites, an experience that deeply affected her. Despite initial hesitations about modeling, she later pursued it. Gadot's mandatory two-year service in the Israel Defense Forces as a combat trainer was a significant part of her formative years, where she honed skills in physical training and weaponry.

Gadot's journey into the public eye began with winning Miss Israel in 2004. She represented Israel at the Miss Universe pageant, where she intentionally did not aim to win. Following her military service, she appeared in a Maxim photo shoot that increased her visibility, leading to modeling opportunities and an international campaign for Prada. She briefly studied law and international studies before pursuing acting. An audition for a James Bond film led to her acting debut in the Israeli drama 'Bubot' in 2008. Her role as Gisele Yashar in 'Fast & Furious' in 2009 marked her entry into Hollywood, a role she reprised in multiple sequels. Her portrayal of Wonder Woman, starting in 'Batman v Superman' (2016), cemented her status as a global star.